The youth of Alavanyo and Nkonya are calling for a ceasefire in the 94-year-old land dispute between the two traditional areas.

The conflict seem unending despite efforts by religious bodies, the National Peace Council and government, with intermittent reports of killings from both sides.

The two areas are currently under curfew from 2200 hours to 0530 hours.

At a meeting between, members of the Volta Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and representatives of the two factions in Ho on Monday, youth from the feuding parties agreed to end the hostilities and co-exist peacefully.

Mr Francis Pongo, spokesperson for the youth of Alavanyo, said the killings were enough and called on both sides to lay down their arms.

He said the conflict was having negative effects on the development of both areas, hampering social and economic growth.

Mr Kokroko Asong Julian, spokesperson for the youth of Nkonya, said the youth of both areas were bearing the brunt of the conflict and appealed to the security agencies to act promptly to avert further bloodshed.

Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, Volta Regional Minister and Chairman of REGSEC lauded the youth for the bold initiative to end the conflict.

He recommended the organisation of various fora in the communities towards the realisation of peace.

Dr Letsa also suggested the compilation of names of families bereaved by the conflict for psychological assistance.

The Regional Minister also called for the formation of a disarmament committee to rid the communities of assault rifles.

“Declarations alone don’t make peace. It takes the commitment of the people declaring the peace”, he stated.

Mr Clemence Gyato, Alavanyo/Nkonya Peace Ambassador recently told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that assurances from the two areas were no longer inspiring and reiterated the call on government to take over the disputed land.

He said though the traditional areas had had several reconciliation durbars and performed rituals invoking the gods against anyone who attacked the other, killings were still being recorded.
GNA