Post-conflict peace and reconciliation in Northern Ghana. The perspectives of key stakeholders in the Dagbon traditional area.

Abstract

Since the resolution of the intractable Dagbon conflict in 2019, little academic works have been done to track the progress, prospects, viability and sustainability of the peace currently being experienced in Dagbon. This study therefore obtained the perception of key stakeholders in Dagbon regarding the resolution of the conflict; assessed the role of stakeholders in the sustainability of the peace in Dagbon; examined the activities and programmes being implemented to promote and maintain the peace, and identified key lessons learned by stakeholders in the course of the Dagbon peace efforts. A qualitative research method was used. Twenty (20) participants were interviewed with a semi-structured interview guide as the data collection instrument. The study found out that; the respondents were generally enthused by the way the conflict was resolved. Also, it was revealed that the respondents performed various functions to achieve the following; improved security in Dagbon, acceleration in developmental projects, and improvements in media works. It was discovered that little or no attention has been paid to the design of programmes or activities to sustain the peace in Dagbon. One of the key lessons highlighted by the respondents was that, the use of violence or unconventional methods to ascend to the Yani Skin, is no longer feasible except for the use of the laid down principles, conventions, values, customs and traditions of Dagbon. The study concludes that, the 2019 resolution of the Dagbon conflict was a huge blessing for the Kingdom. However certain underlying issues such as the inability of stakeholders to constitute a reconciliatory programme to heal wounds, the chieftaincy disputes in Nanton and Karaga, could reverse the gains. The study therefore recommends the establishment of a peace and reconciliation programme to be established by the King to enhance dialogue between the two rival factions. The leadership of this programme should consist of influential people from both gates, to make their resolutions acceptable and satisfactory to both sides.