In the Upper East Region of Ghana, the community of Bongo-Soe witnessed a remarkable transformation—from tension and mistrust to dialogue and cooperation—thanks to the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund Project. At the center of this change is the Community Peace Committee (CPC), a local initiative supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the National Peace Council, which has empowered residents with conflict resolution skills and fostered inclusive dialogue.

One of the most inspiring outcomes of this initiative is the story of Asobase Mathew Aposigna, a youth who once harbored deep resentment toward the Fulbe community. Through targeted training and engagement, Mathew’s perspective shifted dramatically.

“Before the training, I used to attribute all bad or criminal actions to the Fulbe”, he admitted. “But now I understand that discrimination fuels conflict. Dialogue helps us appreciate our differences”. Today, Mathew is a vocal advocate for peace and a key figure in bridging divides.

Female inclusion was another significant hallmark of this initiative, and Rabiatu’s participation in the CPC stands as a powerful testament to the growing representation of young Fulbe women in community leadership. Her presence has encouraged Fulbe women to participate in community meetings and peace dialogues, fostering trust and integration. “Now that I am part of the CPC, Fulbe women feel represented and are more willing to engage”, she shared.

Since 2023, the initiative has trained over 300 community members in early warning systems and conflict resolution. These efforts have significantly reduced tensions and promoted social cohesion between the indigenous population and the Fulbe community.

From reducing conflict and promoting improved relations between Bongo-Soe residents and the Fulbe, this Community Peace Committee (CPC) initiative has yielded tangible results for community cohesion.

The youth and women have been empowered as peacebuilders, fostering inclusive representation and sustainable dialogue in both communities.

Inclusive leadership, where youth and women from all backgrounds are given a voice has strengthened community resilience. Furthermore, training in nonviolent communication has the potential to transform even the most adversarial relationships into partnerships for peace.

Building on the positive outcomes observed in Bongo-Soe, we recommend that similar peacebuilding models be adopted in other conflict-affected areas, and that marginalized groups be actively included in decision-making processes.

The story of Bongo-Soe is more than just a local success, but a powerful reminder that peace is possible when communities are given the tools, the voice, and the space to lead their own transformation.