Catholic relief services: Peacebuilding is faith leaders

The Church is leading peace in conflict-affected communities of Ghana.

The Doba and Kandiga communities in Ghana had lived in ongoing violent conflict for years for years centered on land disputes leading to the loss of lives and properties, and the displacement of many people. The conflict also led to disruption in economic and social activities, thus retarding development.

A peace process led and welcomed by the chiefs and people of Doba and Kandiga. A particular key actor was instrumental in this process and the peace agreement – the Church and the two communities recently embraced peace. The local diocese, through the Sahel Peace Initiative (SPI) sponsored by Catholic Relief Services (CRS), supported the peace process and agreement, and the Most Reverend Alfred Agyenta, Catholic Bishop of the Navrongo Bolgatanga Diocese was a critical leader involved in this process.

He shared that, “This conflict has been going on for many years without a solution.” The Church, known for its mission of peace, then showed leadership. “The Church stepped up and invited the police, army, regional peace council, traditional leaders and CRS,” Bishop Agyenta noted. The Church met with various groups, and through dialogue, they eventually agreed to participate in the traditional ritual to solve this issue. A traditional ceremony and a church service were held publicly to put an end to the conflict and to chart a new path for peaceful coexistence. You can learn more about the Sahel Peace Initiative here and some of the policy points.