The National Peace Council in the Eastern Region has organised a two-day capacity-building training for selected chiefs and local government officers at Aburi in the Akuapem South Municipality to strengthen traditional leadership and sustainable peace.
The training sought to equip Nananom and local government officers with knowledge of natural justice in traditional adjudication, traditional governance and contemporary leadership.
Speaking to the media, the Eastern Regional Chairman of the National Peace Council, Professor Mark Boadu, said traditional leaders played an important role in maintaining peace and resolving disputes within their communities.
He noted that the Eastern Region continued to experience chieftaincy disputes, which had the potential to affect development.
Prof. Boadu said the training would equip participants with practical skills in mediation, negotiation and the application of customary laws to promote peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.
He said strengthening the capacity of traditional leaders with modern conflict-resolution skills would complement traditional approaches and contribute to social stability and national development.
Addressing Nananom on behalf of the Aburihene, the Amankrado Ankobeahene of Aburi, Nana Kwasi Amanor I, commended the Peace Council for organising the training.
He urged chiefs to make greater use of traditional mechanisms for resolving disputes instead of resorting to the courts in every instance.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem South, Paul Osae Offei, also highlighted the impact of chieftaincy disputes on local governance and development.
He urged Nananom to remain committed to managing conflicts peacefully and promoting stability in their communities.
Participants were taken through sessions on customary laws and alternative dispute resolution by legal practitioner, Lawyer Alex Nartey.
He encouraged chiefs to use their traditional authority to promote dialogue, reconciliation and mutual respect among members of their communities.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Akosua Larbi
