The Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, has called on the youth of Bawku to prioritise peace in the wake of renewed violence in the area. 

The MP expressed deep concern over the recurring conflict in Bawku, which he said continues to hinder the region’s development and future prospects for the younger generation.

According to Mr Opoku, the continuous unrest is not only costing lives and property but also setting the town back in critical areas such as education and infrastructure. 

“Bawku is lacking behind in terms of development and everything,” he noted, urging stakeholders to reflect on the long-term impact of the conflict. 

He highlighted that peace is a prerequisite for progress, especially for young people striving to build a better future.

Using education as a key example, the MP pointed out the disparity that conflict creates between youth in Bawku and their counterparts in more peaceful parts of the country. 

“The kids in Bawku will sit for the same BECE with the kids in Accra.

The kids in Bawku want to attend the same university with the kids in Accra,” he said, stressing the need for equal opportunity through a peaceful environment.

Mr Opoku concluded his remarks with a heartfelt plea to the youth: “So I want to urge the young people of Bawku to give peace a chance.” 

He emphasised that only through peace can the town enjoy the benefits of development, education, and national inclusion, urging traditional leaders and community elders to also play a role in ending the cycle of violence. He made this appeal while speaking on Accra-based Metro TV on Friday, April 11.