Government, NGOs asked to assist victims of Bawku conflict

Bolgatanga, April 21, GNA- Government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have been asked to provide emergency food relief to communities affected by the recent violence in Bawku in the Upper East Region.

The appeal was made by the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Religious Groups of Bawku Peace Initiative at the weekend. This was contained in a statement signed by the twelve NGOs and religious bodies that formed the Coalition of CSOs and religious groups of Bawku Peace Initiative.

It was issued to the press after they met in Bolgatanga to deliberate on a comprehensive conflict transformation strategy for the Bawku Municipality.

The Statement said "We have observed that as a consequence of the flood disaster of 2007 coupled with the recent escalation of violence, the food security situation in Bawku is precarious and we urgently appeal for help.

It also appealed to government to consolidate the ongoing efforts aimed at sustaining peace in Bawku and urged all citizens of the area to help in maintaining calm.

The statement said "We members of civil society organizations and religious bodies have taken stock of our involvement and collective responsibility in contributing to peace."

It indicated that the groups were recommitting themselves to engaging fully with all groups in the Bawku conflict to sustain peace and development.

The statement said "We have resolved to intensify consultations in support of the people of Bawku to engage in dialogue towards the search for peace."

It commended the President John Agyekum Kufuor, the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, parliament, religious leaders and security agencies for their contributions towards restoring peace in Bawku.