Empower youth through music for peaceful elections – Peace Council

Eastern Regional office of the National Peace Council has marked International Day of Peace 2024 by urging all stakeholders to empower youth to harness the power of music and arts for promotion of peaceful elections.

Ghana’s youth, once equipped with the creative skills and confidence gained through music and arts, according to the peace body, can become a powerful force for peace and positivity in the upcoming elections.

Speaking during the International Day of Peace commemoration in Koforidua, Professor Mark Boadu, Chairman of the Eastern Regional Peace Council said, “we can nurture a new generation of civically engaged citizens who view political participation as a creative and collaborative endeavours.”

He underscored the importance of arts and music in safeguarding the integrity of the country’s democratic process.

“Through creative expression of our shared hopes and dreams, we can cultivate the emotional intelligence needed to resolve conflicts peacefully and engage in productive civic discourse,” he stated.

This year’s International Day of Peace was themed: “Cultivating a Culture of Peace Through Music and Arts in Promoting Peaceful Elections in 2024.”

The day is celebrated around the world each year on September 21, to commemorate and strengthen the ideals of peace within and among all nations and people.

Professor Boadu noted that the International Day of Peace celebration was an opportunity to uplift theme and inspire all parties to resolve their differences through peaceful and democratic means.

“Crucially, this initiative is not just about the upcoming elections – it is about inspiring a lasting transformation in the way Ghanaians engage with the democratic process,” he added.

The day was marked by cultural performances, drama, choreography and choir that improved understanding and cooperation between political parties.

In his remarks, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr. Seth Kwame Acheampong, highlighted the power of music and arts to unite Ghanaians and foster meaningful conversations.

He noted that these art forms have served as a powerful medium to bring people together and promote dialogue.

“Through these performances we have been inspired and empowered to engage in peaceful discourse rather than violent activities,” he said.

He stated that the foundation of democracy would be under jeopardy in the absence of peace, and that it was therefore imperative to ensure that all stakeholders, including civil society, media, and voting public, were dedicated to a non-violent process.

“We must know that peace does not occur in a vacuum. It has to be nurtured, honoured, and encouraged and here is where the arts and music play an active role as facilitators,” he said.

The event brought together representatives from various political parties, religions, youth choirs, and institutions.

The National Peace Council aims to facilitate and develop mechanisms for preventing, managing, and resolving conflicts. Its goal is to build sustainable peace in the country.