Efforts to strengthen peace and cooperation between the Dagbon and Yagbon traditional areas have received a major boost with the inauguration of a joint committee tasked with addressing boundary-related challenges and promoting lasting harmony between the two kingdoms.
The initiative follows recent historic engagements between the Ya-Na and the Yagbonwura, which have laid the foundation for deeper cooperation rooted in centuries of shared history, culture, and kinship.
The committee, formed through the visionary leadership of the two traditional rulers, is mandated to oversee boundary demarcation concerns while fostering peaceful coexistence between the two traditional areas.
Speaking at the inauguration, co-chairpersons of the committee, Naa Bapra Zulu Lana and Naa Prof. Yakubu Nantogmah, emphasized the deep bonds between the two kingdoms.
“Dagbon and Yagbon are bound by history, culture and family ties. We have intermarried, traded together and coexisted peacefully for generations, and this committee is to protect that legacy,” they said.
Beyond resolving boundary issues, the committee is expected to explore joint development opportunities in areas such as agriculture, trade, education and cultural exchange.
“Peace must translate into development. We want to use this platform to pursue shared growth that benefits our people,” the co-chairpersons added.
The Savannah Regional Minister described land and boundary disputes as a national security issue, stressing the need for state involvement.
“These disputes go beyond traditional authority. They are a national security concern and require government support,” he said.
He disclosed that the matter would be escalated to President John Dramani Mahama, noting that prevention is more cost-effective than conflict management.
“Preventing conflict is far less costly than managing violence,” the Minister stressed.
To support peace-building efforts, he announced that the seven district assemblies in the Savannah Region will each contribute GH₵10,000 annually, providing a minimum of GH₵70,000 to support a peace and mediation committee.
Representing the Savannah Regional Peace Council, Maulvi Hamdu Bin Mohammed warned against division and called for unity among residents.
“Division whether ethnic, religious or geographical weakens society, but unity strengthens it,” he said.
He urged residents to view one another beyond tribal identities.
: We must see ourselves first as human beings, not through tribal lenses,” he added.
Maulvi Hamdu also appealed to parents, elders and institutions, including the National Peace Council, to work collectively to preserve peace.
“Let this generation be remembered for choosing unity over conflict for the sake of future generations,” he urged.
By Nadra Mohammed
