The Chairman of the National Peace Council (NPC) Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson has asked the people of Bawku to be patient and give the council some time to work out things to ensure lasting peace in Bawku.
We know the anger and pain you are currently going through however, we believe that it is through wider consultations with all stakeholders in the conflict that the much needed peace we’re all searching for will come, he said.
Cardinal Peter Appiah said when the blacksmith continue to hit a hot iron several times it means something is at stake. That is why we of the Peace Council will continue to come to Bawku and interact with its people until peace is achieved in Bawku.
The Cardinal made this remark when the NPC made a third time visit to some parts of Bawku and interacted with its people. Cardinal Turkson said the NPC believes peace can reign in Bawku however, peace lies within the people themselves who much as matter urgency make conscious effort towards it. The cardinal expressed his condolences to all bereaved and prayed God to console them enough.
At Pusiga where the NPC visited the Naa Gbewaa Shrine, Maulvi Wahab Adam praised the people for keeping the shrine well. He however urged the people to strive more on the shrine to attract more tourists.
The Omanhene of Dormaa Oseadeyo Agyeman Badu was happy that at long last he has seen the Gbewaa Training College that trained his father and some other prominent citizens of Ghana. He said with all this landmarks and the good of the place, the people should embrace peace, which would automatically bring jobs and development to the area. He expressed desire to adopt some of the children who lost their parents in the conflict. Prof. Irene Adotei embraced and consoled the women who lost their children and husbands. She appealed to them to find a place in their heart to forgive those who have hurt them badly and take what has happened to God in prayers.
The Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Abdulai Abanga expressed worry over the conflict situation and appealed to the people of Bawku to exercise restraint and give peace a chance. He said we can resolve our differences through the use of rule of law and not with the guns.
The Pusiga Chief Naba Ayumah Tambisbalen said with all the blood that has been shed in the land there’s the need to pacify it through a ritual called collection of blood. The chief said the ritual could be done at one of the spots where blood was shed to cover all other spots scattered all over the municipality. He however, said the ritual have to be done by both the Kusasi and Mamprusi to pacify the land. Earlier, the NPC in Bawku paid a courtesy call on the Bawku Naba Abugrago Asigri Azoka II; the visit also took the NPC to Buabula, a suburb where children and women were murdered, Natinga, Bawku central market and lorry station and they finally ended the tour at Solminaba where the first incident of the conflict started.
The council members met some of the victims of the gruesome murders in person, console them and prayed for them.
The council in collaboration with the Bawku municipal Assembly donated 10 bags of maize, 4 bags of beans, 3 goats and unspecified large sum of money to some of the victims. Other dignitaries who accompanied the NPC in their interactive tour included the Deputy Coordinating Director Hon. David Naa-Irene, Mr. Frimpong Mensah executive secretary of NPC, Mr. Frank Afari research assistant, Officer Commanding the Air Borne Force in Bawku Major Worlanyo Agbebo.
James Dorgbetor
Municipal Information Officer
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
RELIGIOUS BODIES APPEAL FOR CALM IN BAWKU
Two religious councils delegation comprising Christians and Muslims in Bawku have also re-echoed the need for peace in Bawku in order to avert the looming hunger and poverty that might plague the municipality if the residents failed to heed to the plea of the nation.
In a four point communiqué jointly issued by the councils, dubbed, Christians and Muslims Dialogue, mentioned education, health, farming and freedom as the hard hit sections by the seven months communal violence which are likely to jeopardize the future of the nation leaders particular Bawku.
Speaking at separate meeting with the feuding factions in Bawku yesterday, Pastor J.O. Barnor of the Pentecost church in Bawku and Secretary to the council, said that education of the children who are the future leaders was being affected Seriously due to the conflict adding that resources that should have gone into providing infrastructure had been channeled towards peace keeping.
He added that health personnel fled the town resulting into unnecessary Deaths, Citing himself as an example; he said that during the 24hour curfew, he had stomach-ache, even though he had police escorts to be taken to the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital, there was no doctor or nurse to attend to him only God saved his life.
Pastor Barnor pleaded with Bawku Naba, to intervene and allow Mamprusis whose farm lands are located in the Kusasis dominated areas to farm, stressing that “Farming activities have also been hindered due to the conflict and this is likely to give birth to hunger, misery, poverty, therefore, we are pleading with you to give peace a chance”
The chairman of the Muslim council, Malam Inusah Musah, indicated that the absence of peace has affected the Friday and Sunday Congregational prayers and told them that they are one people created by one God, therefore should not fight one another and for peace to set in there should be mutual intervention and cordial relationship with both parties, “there we are pleading with you to stop fighting” he pleaded.
He added that worse of it was that people have denied their identities everywhere they go as he termed it “lost image” and also the international community and the entire nation are worried.
In his response, Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abrugrabo Azoka, blamed the imams for giving spiritual protections to the combatants to fight which is perpetuating the conflict adding that even though the Quran has good intentions, they should endeavor to impress upon its followers to positively relate with everybody for the good of humanity.
Naba Abugrago Asigri Azoka II explained he had instructed both his sub-chiefs and divisional as well as individual to allow Mamprusis to farm without any hindrance and urged any Mamprusis who feels intimidated or attacked by Kusasis should report the matter to the police and him.
An opinion leader of the Mamprusis, Mr. Ziblim Haruna said that it should be made clear that the conflict is not between Mamprusis and Kusasis a lone but involved other tribes in the municipality.
Buttressing his allegation, he said places like Possum and Patelemi all suburb of Bawku which are mostly dominated by moshie have been attacked by the kusasis, therefore calling for proper investigations into matter.
Contrary to Bawku Nabas stand on farm lands, Mr., Ziblim said, Mamprusis farm land in kusasis area is still being hold by kusasis making it difficult for them to farm during the season added they are hungry and tied and may likely push them to wall as he termed it “hungry man is an angry man”
They all thanked the effort by the councils and urged them to go at all length for permanent peace to restore to Bawku.
GODWIN NKUNU
ISD BAWKU
In a four point communiqué jointly issued by the councils, dubbed, Christians and Muslims Dialogue, mentioned education, health, farming and freedom as the hard hit sections by the seven months communal violence which are likely to jeopardize the future of the nation leaders particular Bawku.
Speaking at separate meeting with the feuding factions in Bawku yesterday, Pastor J.O. Barnor of the Pentecost church in Bawku and Secretary to the council, said that education of the children who are the future leaders was being affected Seriously due to the conflict adding that resources that should have gone into providing infrastructure had been channeled towards peace keeping.
He added that health personnel fled the town resulting into unnecessary Deaths, Citing himself as an example; he said that during the 24hour curfew, he had stomach-ache, even though he had police escorts to be taken to the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital, there was no doctor or nurse to attend to him only God saved his life.
Pastor Barnor pleaded with Bawku Naba, to intervene and allow Mamprusis whose farm lands are located in the Kusasis dominated areas to farm, stressing that “Farming activities have also been hindered due to the conflict and this is likely to give birth to hunger, misery, poverty, therefore, we are pleading with you to give peace a chance”
The chairman of the Muslim council, Malam Inusah Musah, indicated that the absence of peace has affected the Friday and Sunday Congregational prayers and told them that they are one people created by one God, therefore should not fight one another and for peace to set in there should be mutual intervention and cordial relationship with both parties, “there we are pleading with you to stop fighting” he pleaded.
He added that worse of it was that people have denied their identities everywhere they go as he termed it “lost image” and also the international community and the entire nation are worried.
In his response, Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abrugrabo Azoka, blamed the imams for giving spiritual protections to the combatants to fight which is perpetuating the conflict adding that even though the Quran has good intentions, they should endeavor to impress upon its followers to positively relate with everybody for the good of humanity.
Naba Abugrago Asigri Azoka II explained he had instructed both his sub-chiefs and divisional as well as individual to allow Mamprusis to farm without any hindrance and urged any Mamprusis who feels intimidated or attacked by Kusasis should report the matter to the police and him.
An opinion leader of the Mamprusis, Mr. Ziblim Haruna said that it should be made clear that the conflict is not between Mamprusis and Kusasis a lone but involved other tribes in the municipality.
Buttressing his allegation, he said places like Possum and Patelemi all suburb of Bawku which are mostly dominated by moshie have been attacked by the kusasis, therefore calling for proper investigations into matter.
Contrary to Bawku Nabas stand on farm lands, Mr., Ziblim said, Mamprusis farm land in kusasis area is still being hold by kusasis making it difficult for them to farm during the season added they are hungry and tied and may likely push them to wall as he termed it “hungry man is an angry man”
They all thanked the effort by the councils and urged them to go at all length for permanent peace to restore to Bawku.
GODWIN NKUNU
ISD BAWKU
SUBSIDY ON FERTILIZER MAKES IMPACT
The government intervention on some basic fertilizers through subsidy mostly used by subsistence farmers is making a considerable impact at the grassroots level.
The positive impact of this policy is that, it made the purchasing of the fertilizers accessible and affordable as a result of the heavy subsidy and the evenly distribution of the commodities across the municipality as compared to the past when farmers had to journey over a considerable distance to get the items at a concentrated area.
The Bawku Municipal Information Officer Mr. James Dorgbetor said this when he granted an interview to this reporter.
Visit to Bawku Agricultural Office and some Agricultural Extension Agencies in the municipality saw a large crowd of farmers trying to buy some quantity.
For example at Yara Company, an Agricultural Extension Agency located at Zawse of about 8km from Bawku township has the mandate to distribute the fertilizers to farmers in that locality, therefore, making it convenient and comfortable for farmers to access it.
Some of the fertilizers subsided by the government where Urea, Sulphate of Ammonia (SOA), NPK (15:15:15) and NPK (23: 10: 05)
Before the reduction Urea was sold at GH¢ 49.00 per bag, but now sold at GH¢ 26.00, sulphate of Ammonia which was sold at GH ¢ 31.00 now selling at GH¢18.00, while N.P.K 15:15:15 with old price of GH ¢ 48.00 is currently selling at GH ¢ 26.00and N.P.K 23:10:05 with old price of GH ¢ 45.00, however is at GH ¢ 24.00.
The Bawku Municipal Information Officer Mr. James Dorgbetor explained that in order to access the fertilizers, farmers and prospective buyers have to get a presented coupon from Ministry of Food and Agricultural Office (MOFA), District Agricultural office (DAO) or Agricultural Extension office (A.E.O)
Mr. Dorgbetor said farmers who have not heard the good news are being advised and encouraged to take advantage of this policy to increase their production consequently improve their lives and avert the shortage of food experienced last year in the region.
On the conflict Mr. Dorgbetor said however that, there has been improvement in the conflict situation in the municipality and its environs as a result of the effort of all concerned stakeholders especially the security in the recent time.
Mr. Dorgbetor therefore, advised all and Sundry to comply with the by-laws in and around the municipality and move about their normal activities but cautiously, especially during these trying times where people seemed to have been taken the law into their own hands.
He said also, there has been improvement in the hospital attendance as the Statistical office has been recording huge figures daily as contrary reported in some media houses that the hospital had been closed down.
Godwin Nkunu.
ISD BAWKU
The positive impact of this policy is that, it made the purchasing of the fertilizers accessible and affordable as a result of the heavy subsidy and the evenly distribution of the commodities across the municipality as compared to the past when farmers had to journey over a considerable distance to get the items at a concentrated area.
The Bawku Municipal Information Officer Mr. James Dorgbetor said this when he granted an interview to this reporter.
Visit to Bawku Agricultural Office and some Agricultural Extension Agencies in the municipality saw a large crowd of farmers trying to buy some quantity.
For example at Yara Company, an Agricultural Extension Agency located at Zawse of about 8km from Bawku township has the mandate to distribute the fertilizers to farmers in that locality, therefore, making it convenient and comfortable for farmers to access it.
Some of the fertilizers subsided by the government where Urea, Sulphate of Ammonia (SOA), NPK (15:15:15) and NPK (23: 10: 05)
Before the reduction Urea was sold at GH¢ 49.00 per bag, but now sold at GH¢ 26.00, sulphate of Ammonia which was sold at GH ¢ 31.00 now selling at GH¢18.00, while N.P.K 15:15:15 with old price of GH ¢ 48.00 is currently selling at GH ¢ 26.00and N.P.K 23:10:05 with old price of GH ¢ 45.00, however is at GH ¢ 24.00.
The Bawku Municipal Information Officer Mr. James Dorgbetor explained that in order to access the fertilizers, farmers and prospective buyers have to get a presented coupon from Ministry of Food and Agricultural Office (MOFA), District Agricultural office (DAO) or Agricultural Extension office (A.E.O)
Mr. Dorgbetor said farmers who have not heard the good news are being advised and encouraged to take advantage of this policy to increase their production consequently improve their lives and avert the shortage of food experienced last year in the region.
On the conflict Mr. Dorgbetor said however that, there has been improvement in the conflict situation in the municipality and its environs as a result of the effort of all concerned stakeholders especially the security in the recent time.
Mr. Dorgbetor therefore, advised all and Sundry to comply with the by-laws in and around the municipality and move about their normal activities but cautiously, especially during these trying times where people seemed to have been taken the law into their own hands.
He said also, there has been improvement in the hospital attendance as the Statistical office has been recording huge figures daily as contrary reported in some media houses that the hospital had been closed down.
Godwin Nkunu.
ISD BAWKU
REJOINDER – MAMPRUGU YOUTH SUPPORT
I write to express my discontentment for the unfounded allegations and incriminating statement made by Alhassan Batesima Adams, Chairman of Mamprugu Youth Association against Hon. Abdulai Abanga with the headline “Mamprugu Youth support peace efforts in Bawku”, which was published in the Daily Graphic, July 1st edition.
Quoting from the paper, the fifth and six paragraphs say “The chairman of the association, Alhassan Batesima Adams, however, called for the removal of both the Upper East Regional Minister and the Bawku Municipal Chief Executive, Messrs Alhassan Samari and Emmanuel Abanga, respectively for their alleged complicity in the conflict”.
“He contended that before the appointment of the two, Bawku had experienced absolute peace, security and economic boom and wondered why the area had to relapse into conflict after their assumption of office”.
First and foremost, I would like to correct Mr. Adams for wrongly calling the Honourable “Emmanuel Abanga” as reported in the paper. The correct name is Honourable Abdulai Abanga.
Also, all and sundry knows that the current Bawku conflict started on December 31st, 2007. However, Hon. Abdulai Abanga after his appointment by His Excellency President J. A. Kuffuor, he was confirmed in January 24th, 2008. Therefore, if Mr. Adams would say that before, Hon. Abdulai Abanga assumed office Bawku had experienced absolute peace, security and economic boom and wondered why the area had to relapse into conflict is just the opposite. What Mr. Adams failed to acknowledge is that the conflict dates back 1958, which is far older than Hon. Abdulai Abanga.
The fact is that the conflict in Bawku had begun before Hon. Abdulai Abanga was confirmed let alone assume office. Further, administratively, it would take time for handover to take place for him to start work officially.
So for Mr. Adams, a whole chairman to exhibit such a blatant ignorance was unfortunate and unfounded. This shows that Mr. Adams is not in touch with events on the ground and therefore should not be allowed to make such wild and unsubstantiated comments capable of compounding the already dicey problem in Bawku which well-meaning Ghanaians are trying relentlessly to resolve for socio-economic development of the municipality.
To declare the neutrality of Hon. Abdulai Abanga as the Chief Executive of Bawku Municipality in the Bawku conflict, he did lot in consolidating the peace currently prevailing in Bawku such as assisting the National Peace Council and many other bodies to carryout their mediation and resolution efforts in Bawku. He is equally in constant consultation with the leadership from the Kusasi and Mamprusi who at any time call Hon. Abdulai Abanga to share or discuss Issues pertaining to the conflict and other general issues bordering on development.
By the invitation of the two sides by his Excellency President J. A. Kuffuor, Hon. Abanga facilitated the movement of the feuding factions in honouring the invitation.
Again, as a leader for all and sundry, Kusasis and Mamprusis inclusive, in May when the 101 Mamprusis in Pusiga were displaced and sought refugee status in Goulougousi, a village in Togo, Hon. Abanga initiated efforts for their welfare until 66 were safely repatriated home whiles efforts are still under way to bring the remaining home.
So how could he be involved in the conflict? Did Mr. Adams want to say that Hon. Abanga is enemy of his own progress? Obviously not.
Mr. Adams could have done everybody good if he had mention any acts of omission or commission but he failed to do so.
In addition, we can’t ignore the meritorious roles Hon. Abanga played as chairman of MUSEC who hold regular meetings on the current situation with single aim of restoring peace to the Municipality for effective and efficient management of his administration in reducing poverty. Quoting from the Holy Bible, it says “A house that stands against itself can’t stand” therefore how can he succeed in his administration and so saddens the hearts of many considering this unfounded allegation vis-avis his position in taking side in the conflict.
From the view point of many peace loving people, Mr. Adams wanted to derail the effort so far made; by concerned citizens both in and outside Bawku otherwise Mr. Adams should not have made such a vague statement which has no iota of truth.
We therefore, challenge Adams, to come out with facts possibly figures to substantiate his allegation for every Ghanaian to see the contributions of Hon. Abanga in either generating or fuelling the Bawku conflict. If not we urge Adams and people like him to desist from such utterances that might aggravate the situation.
On this note we plead with all concerned be it individuals, groups, or institutions to all put their shoulder to the wheel in restoring peace, we mean absolute peace in Bawku and its environs for socio-economic development of the municipality.
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE
BAWKU MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY
POST OFFICE BOX 1
BAWKU.
Quoting from the paper, the fifth and six paragraphs say “The chairman of the association, Alhassan Batesima Adams, however, called for the removal of both the Upper East Regional Minister and the Bawku Municipal Chief Executive, Messrs Alhassan Samari and Emmanuel Abanga, respectively for their alleged complicity in the conflict”.
“He contended that before the appointment of the two, Bawku had experienced absolute peace, security and economic boom and wondered why the area had to relapse into conflict after their assumption of office”.
First and foremost, I would like to correct Mr. Adams for wrongly calling the Honourable “Emmanuel Abanga” as reported in the paper. The correct name is Honourable Abdulai Abanga.
Also, all and sundry knows that the current Bawku conflict started on December 31st, 2007. However, Hon. Abdulai Abanga after his appointment by His Excellency President J. A. Kuffuor, he was confirmed in January 24th, 2008. Therefore, if Mr. Adams would say that before, Hon. Abdulai Abanga assumed office Bawku had experienced absolute peace, security and economic boom and wondered why the area had to relapse into conflict is just the opposite. What Mr. Adams failed to acknowledge is that the conflict dates back 1958, which is far older than Hon. Abdulai Abanga.
The fact is that the conflict in Bawku had begun before Hon. Abdulai Abanga was confirmed let alone assume office. Further, administratively, it would take time for handover to take place for him to start work officially.
So for Mr. Adams, a whole chairman to exhibit such a blatant ignorance was unfortunate and unfounded. This shows that Mr. Adams is not in touch with events on the ground and therefore should not be allowed to make such wild and unsubstantiated comments capable of compounding the already dicey problem in Bawku which well-meaning Ghanaians are trying relentlessly to resolve for socio-economic development of the municipality.
To declare the neutrality of Hon. Abdulai Abanga as the Chief Executive of Bawku Municipality in the Bawku conflict, he did lot in consolidating the peace currently prevailing in Bawku such as assisting the National Peace Council and many other bodies to carryout their mediation and resolution efforts in Bawku. He is equally in constant consultation with the leadership from the Kusasi and Mamprusi who at any time call Hon. Abdulai Abanga to share or discuss Issues pertaining to the conflict and other general issues bordering on development.
By the invitation of the two sides by his Excellency President J. A. Kuffuor, Hon. Abanga facilitated the movement of the feuding factions in honouring the invitation.
Again, as a leader for all and sundry, Kusasis and Mamprusis inclusive, in May when the 101 Mamprusis in Pusiga were displaced and sought refugee status in Goulougousi, a village in Togo, Hon. Abanga initiated efforts for their welfare until 66 were safely repatriated home whiles efforts are still under way to bring the remaining home.
So how could he be involved in the conflict? Did Mr. Adams want to say that Hon. Abanga is enemy of his own progress? Obviously not.
Mr. Adams could have done everybody good if he had mention any acts of omission or commission but he failed to do so.
In addition, we can’t ignore the meritorious roles Hon. Abanga played as chairman of MUSEC who hold regular meetings on the current situation with single aim of restoring peace to the Municipality for effective and efficient management of his administration in reducing poverty. Quoting from the Holy Bible, it says “A house that stands against itself can’t stand” therefore how can he succeed in his administration and so saddens the hearts of many considering this unfounded allegation vis-avis his position in taking side in the conflict.
From the view point of many peace loving people, Mr. Adams wanted to derail the effort so far made; by concerned citizens both in and outside Bawku otherwise Mr. Adams should not have made such a vague statement which has no iota of truth.
We therefore, challenge Adams, to come out with facts possibly figures to substantiate his allegation for every Ghanaian to see the contributions of Hon. Abanga in either generating or fuelling the Bawku conflict. If not we urge Adams and people like him to desist from such utterances that might aggravate the situation.
On this note we plead with all concerned be it individuals, groups, or institutions to all put their shoulder to the wheel in restoring peace, we mean absolute peace in Bawku and its environs for socio-economic development of the municipality.
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE
BAWKU MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY
POST OFFICE BOX 1
BAWKU.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
CHILDREN IN BAWKU AT RISK OF INFECTIONS BECAUSE OF THE CONFLICT
The Bawku municipal director of health services, Dr. Mensah Afful has hinted that most children in Bawku could be at risk of infections especially those under five because about 78% who were expected to be immunized have not been able to do so due to the conflict situation.
Dr. Mensah Afful explained that according to health policy, they were expected to immunize 90% of children under five years against polio and measles, however, as at march this year, only 20.4% and 22.3% of children were covered against polio and measles respectively as against 26.9 and 28.2 % during the same period last year.
Dr. Mensah revealed this when he addressed the youth of all the tribes in Bawku at a meeting organized by the Bawku Literary Society (BLS) with sponsorship from IBIS GHANA, Non-Governmental Organization (NGO).
Dr. Mensah noted that this has resulted into a pool of infections leading to rising number of deaths among children because most of the nurses could not move freely to some parts of the Municipality and parents equally could not move to health centers to have their children immunized.
“Even now that the area is experiencing relative calm, hospital attendance is very low and one may wonder where they take the sick to and this is becoming a great worry to the health directorate” he lamented.
Dr. Mensah said that performance indicators on immunization, deliveries and out-patients Department (OPD) were all going down as a result of the restriction on movement especially the health personnel who belong to the feuding sides.
He said only six doctors are currently working under serious stress who are made up of two Cubans and two Ghanaians as general doctors and two ophthalmologists.
Dr. Mensah Afful described the conflict as unproductive and backwards considering the numerous negative effects on the socio-economic life of the people especially the health implications the people are grappling with.
Touching on education, the Human Resource Personnel of Ghana Education Service (GES) in Bawku, Madam Fatima Seidu said that teaching and learning come to stand still any time the conflict intensifies.
She added that as a result of the conflict, a lot of teachers thronged the office of GES for transfers and releases especially the non-natives to the detriment of the pupils.
She further added that a visit to some of the basic school revealed that out of 10 teachers only two were present and population of 150 in a school only 50 pupils were present.
Madam Fatima explained that education is the bedrock of development for every society, therefore, appealed to the youth to impact positively on their neighbors for effective teaching and learning when they return to the various communities.
Speaking under the theme “Tolerance Amongst the youth – A Pre – Requisite for sustainable peace in Bawku” the president of BLS, Miss Florence Bombande said the can never be any meaningful development in Bawku if there is no peace.
She admonished the youth not to allow themselves to be used as a tool in the conflict because is their future which is at stake here and any lapses on their part could jeopardize them greatly.
Miss Florence Bombande urged the youth in Bawku to see each other as one and try within all means possible to peacefully live together.
At the end of the meeting, the youth saw the need for peace to prevail in Bawku and its environs and came out with some resolution messages for peace, some of which read; Respect for individual opinion, let’s live in peace in Bawku, political campaigns should be peaceful, Discipline during the elections, and among others.
Godwin Nkunu
ISD Bawku
Dr. Mensah Afful explained that according to health policy, they were expected to immunize 90% of children under five years against polio and measles, however, as at march this year, only 20.4% and 22.3% of children were covered against polio and measles respectively as against 26.9 and 28.2 % during the same period last year.
Dr. Mensah revealed this when he addressed the youth of all the tribes in Bawku at a meeting organized by the Bawku Literary Society (BLS) with sponsorship from IBIS GHANA, Non-Governmental Organization (NGO).
Dr. Mensah noted that this has resulted into a pool of infections leading to rising number of deaths among children because most of the nurses could not move freely to some parts of the Municipality and parents equally could not move to health centers to have their children immunized.
“Even now that the area is experiencing relative calm, hospital attendance is very low and one may wonder where they take the sick to and this is becoming a great worry to the health directorate” he lamented.
Dr. Mensah said that performance indicators on immunization, deliveries and out-patients Department (OPD) were all going down as a result of the restriction on movement especially the health personnel who belong to the feuding sides.
He said only six doctors are currently working under serious stress who are made up of two Cubans and two Ghanaians as general doctors and two ophthalmologists.
Dr. Mensah Afful described the conflict as unproductive and backwards considering the numerous negative effects on the socio-economic life of the people especially the health implications the people are grappling with.
Touching on education, the Human Resource Personnel of Ghana Education Service (GES) in Bawku, Madam Fatima Seidu said that teaching and learning come to stand still any time the conflict intensifies.
She added that as a result of the conflict, a lot of teachers thronged the office of GES for transfers and releases especially the non-natives to the detriment of the pupils.
She further added that a visit to some of the basic school revealed that out of 10 teachers only two were present and population of 150 in a school only 50 pupils were present.
Madam Fatima explained that education is the bedrock of development for every society, therefore, appealed to the youth to impact positively on their neighbors for effective teaching and learning when they return to the various communities.
Speaking under the theme “Tolerance Amongst the youth – A Pre – Requisite for sustainable peace in Bawku” the president of BLS, Miss Florence Bombande said the can never be any meaningful development in Bawku if there is no peace.
She admonished the youth not to allow themselves to be used as a tool in the conflict because is their future which is at stake here and any lapses on their part could jeopardize them greatly.
Miss Florence Bombande urged the youth in Bawku to see each other as one and try within all means possible to peacefully live together.
At the end of the meeting, the youth saw the need for peace to prevail in Bawku and its environs and came out with some resolution messages for peace, some of which read; Respect for individual opinion, let’s live in peace in Bawku, political campaigns should be peaceful, Discipline during the elections, and among others.
Godwin Nkunu
ISD Bawku
LAUNCH OF ANTI- TB/HIV/AIDS CAMPANIGN AT PUSIGA
About a third of the world’s population; 2 billion people carry TB bacteria, but most never develop the active disease. However, every year 8-10 million people catch the disease and 2 million die from it.
In the Bawku Municipality alone last year 2007, over one hundred new TB cases were detected and put on treatment.
The Bawku Municipal Director of Health Services Dr. Mensah Afful said this during the launching of Anti TB /HIV/AIDS campaign at Pusiga in the Bawku Municipality.
Dr. Mensah Afful said about 10% of people infected with TB actually develop the disease in their lifetimes, but this preparation is changing as HIV severely weakens the human immune system and makes people much more vulnerable.
“Tuberculosis, or TB is an infectious bacterial disease cause by mycobacterium tuberculosis, which most commonly affects the lumps and its spread from an infectious person who is coughing to another person through “the air” he explained.
Dr. Afful said TB is treatable and is free with a six month course of antibiotics. He dispelled false beliefs that you can become infected by TB by touching someone who has it or being with an infected person for a few minutes rather it is transmitted only by prolonged close contact with coughing infectious patients. Also, TB patients who have taken their treatment for 2 weeks and are still taking are usually not infectious, he emphasized.
He advised anybody who coughs for 2 week should seek treatment from a health facility and don’t sit and die from a disease which is treatable and free at all government hospitals.
The Executive Director of the Rural – Urban Women and Children Development Agency (RUWACDA) Mr. Braimah Abdulai said the NGO which has been in existence barely 3 year is committed to providing social services in its focal communities by facilitating empowerment of women and the youth through reproductive health, education, providing economic empowerment through integrated approach by the provision of vocational training, promotion of sanitation and environmental sustainability.
He said the purpose of the launch is to disseminate Information Education and Communication and promote Behavioral Change Communication on the devastating diseases TB/HIV/AIDS that claim millions of lives every year and also to advocate for peace.
“This year RUWACDA in partnership with the National TB control program and Ghana Aids commission through the support of the Global fund is undertaking a behavioral change communication and information Education on TB/HIV/AIDS in the Bawku Municipality. In May 2007 RUWACDA was one of the few selected NGO’s by MOH, MOFA to provide public education intervention on avian influenza (Bird Fly)”he emphasized.
Mr. Braimah Abdulai impressed upon philanthropists, institutions, donor agencies, government and all actors to support RUWACDA.
The Bawku Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Abduai Abanga in a speech read on his behalf said the issue of TB/HIV/AIDS in the development of our society cannot be over emphasized and these two killer diseases are more than brothers who attack to kill.
“Fortunately TB is curable and its treatment is free but HIV/AIDS is not, however when HIV/AIDS patients receive anti-retroviral treatment their life’s can be prolonged. He therefore encouraged all who are suffering from these killer diseases to avail themselves at Health facilities for treatment” he said.
Hon. Abanga appealed to the people to rise up and fight the evils of poverty, hunger and disease rather than fighting amongst themselves.
“In these modern times when everybody’s attitude is changing from primitive thinking to progressive thinking, here we are still stacked in the cave of violence and conflicts of destruction” he lamented.
The chief of Pusiga Naba Ayumah Tambisballem thanked RUWACDA and believes the programme would bring life to an infected person who out of ignorance may be dying in silent.
Naba Ayuma Tambisballem prayed for lasting peace so that their programs and towns would not be guided by security men and women.
A day earlier, RUWACDA organized a workshop for its treatment support volunteers aimed at equipping the volunteers with the knowledge of TB and how to assist TB patients. And on the day of the launch, there was a procession through the principal streets of Pusiga Township, the processors carried placards some of which bored the inscription; stop aids love life, HIV/AIDS can kill, TB can be cured, and TB treatment is free.
JAMES DORGBETOR
MUNICIPAL INFORMATION OFFICER
In the Bawku Municipality alone last year 2007, over one hundred new TB cases were detected and put on treatment.
The Bawku Municipal Director of Health Services Dr. Mensah Afful said this during the launching of Anti TB /HIV/AIDS campaign at Pusiga in the Bawku Municipality.
Dr. Mensah Afful said about 10% of people infected with TB actually develop the disease in their lifetimes, but this preparation is changing as HIV severely weakens the human immune system and makes people much more vulnerable.
“Tuberculosis, or TB is an infectious bacterial disease cause by mycobacterium tuberculosis, which most commonly affects the lumps and its spread from an infectious person who is coughing to another person through “the air” he explained.
Dr. Afful said TB is treatable and is free with a six month course of antibiotics. He dispelled false beliefs that you can become infected by TB by touching someone who has it or being with an infected person for a few minutes rather it is transmitted only by prolonged close contact with coughing infectious patients. Also, TB patients who have taken their treatment for 2 weeks and are still taking are usually not infectious, he emphasized.
He advised anybody who coughs for 2 week should seek treatment from a health facility and don’t sit and die from a disease which is treatable and free at all government hospitals.
The Executive Director of the Rural – Urban Women and Children Development Agency (RUWACDA) Mr. Braimah Abdulai said the NGO which has been in existence barely 3 year is committed to providing social services in its focal communities by facilitating empowerment of women and the youth through reproductive health, education, providing economic empowerment through integrated approach by the provision of vocational training, promotion of sanitation and environmental sustainability.
He said the purpose of the launch is to disseminate Information Education and Communication and promote Behavioral Change Communication on the devastating diseases TB/HIV/AIDS that claim millions of lives every year and also to advocate for peace.
“This year RUWACDA in partnership with the National TB control program and Ghana Aids commission through the support of the Global fund is undertaking a behavioral change communication and information Education on TB/HIV/AIDS in the Bawku Municipality. In May 2007 RUWACDA was one of the few selected NGO’s by MOH, MOFA to provide public education intervention on avian influenza (Bird Fly)”he emphasized.
Mr. Braimah Abdulai impressed upon philanthropists, institutions, donor agencies, government and all actors to support RUWACDA.
The Bawku Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Abduai Abanga in a speech read on his behalf said the issue of TB/HIV/AIDS in the development of our society cannot be over emphasized and these two killer diseases are more than brothers who attack to kill.
“Fortunately TB is curable and its treatment is free but HIV/AIDS is not, however when HIV/AIDS patients receive anti-retroviral treatment their life’s can be prolonged. He therefore encouraged all who are suffering from these killer diseases to avail themselves at Health facilities for treatment” he said.
Hon. Abanga appealed to the people to rise up and fight the evils of poverty, hunger and disease rather than fighting amongst themselves.
“In these modern times when everybody’s attitude is changing from primitive thinking to progressive thinking, here we are still stacked in the cave of violence and conflicts of destruction” he lamented.
The chief of Pusiga Naba Ayumah Tambisballem thanked RUWACDA and believes the programme would bring life to an infected person who out of ignorance may be dying in silent.
Naba Ayuma Tambisballem prayed for lasting peace so that their programs and towns would not be guided by security men and women.
A day earlier, RUWACDA organized a workshop for its treatment support volunteers aimed at equipping the volunteers with the knowledge of TB and how to assist TB patients. And on the day of the launch, there was a procession through the principal streets of Pusiga Township, the processors carried placards some of which bored the inscription; stop aids love life, HIV/AIDS can kill, TB can be cured, and TB treatment is free.
JAMES DORGBETOR
MUNICIPAL INFORMATION OFFICER
Monday, June 9, 2008
PEACE, BAWKU, PEACE!
The communal clashes in Bawku which started some fifty years ago has claimed several lives and destroyed properties worth millions of Ghana cedi.
The conflict which takes its remote cause in chieftaincy and land dispute is gradually bringing Bawku and for that matter the entire Bawku municipality to its knees and also scaring away workers and potential investors.
The frequent breaks in social life, economic activities, quality health care assessment etc leaves much to be desired. What is more, the many projects and businesses that have been put on hold are having severe hardship and underdevelopment on the area. The man hours and resources lost to the conflict are overwhelming.
The revenue of the Bawku municipal Assembly have dwindled drastically and the little left plus what comes from the central Government are being used to keep peace in Bawku but could have been channeled to build schools, hospitals, roads, dams and markets.
Both JHS and SHS candidates of 2008 suffered a great deal of tuition since most teachers vacated the area. For instance, the JHS candidates at the wake of this recent conflict did not receive a steady tuition as any time the conflict erupted they had to run home for their dear lives which meant that particular week a lot of lesson period had been lost. Also some SHS candidates missed some of their final WASSCE papers which one wonders what the performance of these candidates of 2008 results will be.
Women especially the pregnant ones went through horrible experiences just to access health care resulting in the death of one of them. The children are looking on helplessly and not sure what the conflict situation would turn them into in the near future.
In fact any body you talk to speaks of frustrations and are not in the least happy about what is happening in Bawku.
A few workers who have braved the storm and still at post during this conflict times are equally worried and not sure how things will turn out. Their worry becomes worse when their families and relations keep calling them to vacate the area simply because the news that comes from Bawku any time there is renewed violence is enough to increase ones blood pressure
However the situation is not too bad that it cannot be corrected because the Kusasis and Mamprusis have many things in common than divide them. Firstly most Kusasis and Mamprusis have their parentage and close relations being either a Kusasi or a Mamprusi. Secondly they use the same markets, schools, hospitals and clinics, boreholes etc. Thirdly any time there is renewed violence, some few days later when you see how they interact you will wonder which people were fighting the previous days. The people of Bawku have a strong will and should be able to call a spade a spade and unanimously agree to stop the recent conflict which has lasted for five months no matter who is perceived to be down or up because in a conflict situation there is neither a victor nor vanquish especially when the combatants are closely related.
Let us have confidence in the peace process initiated by the President J A Kufuor which has now been handed over to the National Peace Council led by His eminence cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson. Let us listen to the soothing words of peace by these eminent personalities and move from our entrenched positions and allow peace to reign. Let do this for the sake of the children, women, and non native workers who are determined to help develop the area despite all the odds and for the values and identity we stand for. We should also cooperate and appreciate the securities who are sacrificing their lives day in day out to ensure that there is no further lost of life or property. But for the security things could have been worse. It doesn’t matter what has happened so far, they fortunes of Bawku can be turned around if they combatants decide today to stop the violence, attacks and destructions. It is possible peace can reign in Bawku again because nothing is impossible for he who believes. Shalom! Peace!!
JAMES DORGBETOR
MUNICIPAL INFORMATION OFFICER
BAWKU
The conflict which takes its remote cause in chieftaincy and land dispute is gradually bringing Bawku and for that matter the entire Bawku municipality to its knees and also scaring away workers and potential investors.
The frequent breaks in social life, economic activities, quality health care assessment etc leaves much to be desired. What is more, the many projects and businesses that have been put on hold are having severe hardship and underdevelopment on the area. The man hours and resources lost to the conflict are overwhelming.
The revenue of the Bawku municipal Assembly have dwindled drastically and the little left plus what comes from the central Government are being used to keep peace in Bawku but could have been channeled to build schools, hospitals, roads, dams and markets.
Both JHS and SHS candidates of 2008 suffered a great deal of tuition since most teachers vacated the area. For instance, the JHS candidates at the wake of this recent conflict did not receive a steady tuition as any time the conflict erupted they had to run home for their dear lives which meant that particular week a lot of lesson period had been lost. Also some SHS candidates missed some of their final WASSCE papers which one wonders what the performance of these candidates of 2008 results will be.
Women especially the pregnant ones went through horrible experiences just to access health care resulting in the death of one of them. The children are looking on helplessly and not sure what the conflict situation would turn them into in the near future.
In fact any body you talk to speaks of frustrations and are not in the least happy about what is happening in Bawku.
A few workers who have braved the storm and still at post during this conflict times are equally worried and not sure how things will turn out. Their worry becomes worse when their families and relations keep calling them to vacate the area simply because the news that comes from Bawku any time there is renewed violence is enough to increase ones blood pressure
However the situation is not too bad that it cannot be corrected because the Kusasis and Mamprusis have many things in common than divide them. Firstly most Kusasis and Mamprusis have their parentage and close relations being either a Kusasi or a Mamprusi. Secondly they use the same markets, schools, hospitals and clinics, boreholes etc. Thirdly any time there is renewed violence, some few days later when you see how they interact you will wonder which people were fighting the previous days. The people of Bawku have a strong will and should be able to call a spade a spade and unanimously agree to stop the recent conflict which has lasted for five months no matter who is perceived to be down or up because in a conflict situation there is neither a victor nor vanquish especially when the combatants are closely related.
Let us have confidence in the peace process initiated by the President J A Kufuor which has now been handed over to the National Peace Council led by His eminence cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson. Let us listen to the soothing words of peace by these eminent personalities and move from our entrenched positions and allow peace to reign. Let do this for the sake of the children, women, and non native workers who are determined to help develop the area despite all the odds and for the values and identity we stand for. We should also cooperate and appreciate the securities who are sacrificing their lives day in day out to ensure that there is no further lost of life or property. But for the security things could have been worse. It doesn’t matter what has happened so far, they fortunes of Bawku can be turned around if they combatants decide today to stop the violence, attacks and destructions. It is possible peace can reign in Bawku again because nothing is impossible for he who believes. Shalom! Peace!!
JAMES DORGBETOR
MUNICIPAL INFORMATION OFFICER
BAWKU
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
