The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), with support from the European Union (EU), has organized an engagement forum for youth groups from border towns within the Central Gonja District in the Savannah Region. The program, organized in line with the objectives of Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism (PCVE), aims to promote social cohesion, peace, and tolerance in the five northern regions and other hotspots in Ghana. The forum is intended to ensure that the youth understand the negative consequences of joining violent extremist groups and are aware of the legal framework that bars the activities of violent extremist and terrorist organizations.
The district directorate held its youth engagement forum on October 29, 2024, at the Mum and Dad Conference Center, bringing together major youth groups from border communities.
In his welcome address, District Civic Education Officer Mr Saaka Yakubu Muftawu noted that violent extremism remains a significant threat to global security and societal harmony, especially with the alarming trend of extremist groups deliberately targeting and radicalizing young people. He highlighted that the issue becomes even more pronounced during election periods when political and social tensions are heightened, and youth engagement in political discourse increases.
Mr Saaka further explained that extremists exploit these heightened tensions, using sophisticated propaganda and recruitment strategies, particularly on social media, to influence young individuals. He stressed that radicalization is often a gradual process, making young people seeking identity, purpose, or belonging more susceptible to recruitment into violent extremist groups. The Civic Education Officer emphasized the need for civic engagements that foster a sense of unity, belonging, and patriotism among the youth to prevent violence and radicalization during the 2024 election period. He encouraged participants to take the discussions seriously to gain the knowledge needed to resist the appeal of terrorism.
Regional NCCE Director and special guest of honour, Mr Issahaka Zitor, emphasized that the engagement aimed to promote peaceful coexistence and interfaith tolerance. He discussed the triggers and effects of violent extremism, cautioning the youth to be mindful of extremism in worship centres and workplaces. Mr Zitor stressed the importance of resisting the appeal of terrorism and avoiding extremist groups, noting that the engagement would instil in the youth a spirit of patriotism, civic responsibility, inclusive values, and a sense of belonging to their communities. He explained that these engagements would improve participants’ knowledge and attitudes towards tolerance and non-violence, encouraging them to become “Ambassadors for Peace.”
He also cautioned the youth against spreading fake news, urging them to verify information carefully before drawing conclusions.
District Police Commander ASP Kwame Nimo explained that combating fake news requires critical thinking and awareness of potential red flags. He advised participants to verify information before sharing it and encouraged them to look out for one another in fighting crime within the community. ASP Nimo noted that maintaining community safety requires active participation, enhancing surveillance and supporting the national security framework’s objective: “See something, say something.”
ASP Nimo also advised the youth to avoid extremist content online, reminding them that radicalization is often gradual. He encouraged them to remain vigilant and report suspicious characters to the appropriate authorities. He emphasized the police’s commitment to collaborating with community members to prevent and reduce crime at the district, regional, and national levels.
At the end of the session, participants were divided into three groups to discuss and present on the following topics:
- Identify and discuss five signs indicating a young person is being radicalized.
- Discuss crime prevention practices in your community.
- List and discuss five benefits of neighbourhood watch/community patrol.
The entire engagement process was translated into the various local languages spoken in the traditional area, including Gonja, Twi, and Dagbani, allowing participants to contribute freely and voice their concerns.
Participants expressed their commitment to sharing what they learned with friends and family to promote peace and security in the district, region, and nation. Many also applauded the commission and its partners for bringing this impactful and educational program to their community.
