The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reiterated his unwavering commitment to supporting peace-building efforts in Bawku and surrounding communities, which have long been affected by chieftaincy-related conflicts.

His renewed pledge comes amid a pause in ongoing peace negotiations, attributed to the complex and deep-rooted nature of the disputes fueling the unrest in the Upper East Region town.

Despite these setbacks, Otumfuo expressed confidence that ongoing mediation involving the disputing factions will eventually yield a peaceful resolution.

He made the remarks during a courtesy call by a delegation from the UK Advanced Command and Staff Course at the Manhyia Palace.

Highlighting the link between peace and development, the Asante monarch stressed the pivotal role of traditional authorities in maintaining stability across the country.

“We need peace to develop,” he said. “It is our responsibility, as traditional leaders, to ensure peace in our communities.

When conflicts arise, we step in to adjudicate and resolve them so that the government can focus on development.”

Commenting specifically on the Bawku conflict, Otumfuo noted: “There have been recent communal clashes in the northern parts of Ghana, especially in Bawku near the Burkina Faso border.

We are working tirelessly to ensure that peace is restored and sustained”, he concluded