Bono Regional Minister has urged participants of a five-day Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) training in Sunyani to embrace conflict management as a tool for sustainable community development.

“Our collective ability to manage conflicts proactively, fairly, and peacefully will determine the pace of our development and the well-being of our people,” Joseph Addae Akwaboa said.

The training, organised by GIZ under the “Promotion of the Rule of Law and Judiciary in Africa” project, brought together about 50 members of the Peace Councils in the Bono and Ahafo Regions, along with other stakeholders.

Mr. Akwaboa described the training as timely, especially in an era marked by rising social tensions, land disputes, workplace conflicts, and political disagreements.

He emphasised the need to build capacity in mediation and conflict resolution to prevent these issues from escalating.

He noted that although the Bono and Ahafo regions enjoy relative peace, some isolated chieftaincy disputes continue to hinder development.

“We must not take things for granted,” he cautioned, adding that the training offers participants essential practical skills in negotiation and conflict resolution.

He stressed that these are not just tools for professionals in law and governance, but vital life skills for traditional leaders, civil society actors, and community stakeholders.

Dr. Stefanos Kareklas, GIZ project lead, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Technical Advisor Yvette Kwami, said the rule of law project seeks to promote accessible, inclusive, and effective justice systems across Ghana.

“One of our key focus areas is to strengthen mechanisms that resolve disputes outside the formal court system—mechanisms that are closer to the people and responsive to their lived realities,” he stated.

Dr. Kareklas highlighted the Peace Council’s critical role in managing community tensions and stressed the importance of building its capacity.

“We hope this training will enrich your efforts to uphold peace and social cohesion in your respective regions,” he said.

ADR consultant and facilitator, Alex Nartey, said the training was held under the theme: “The Peace Council as a Third-Party Neutral within the Governance Structure of the Region.”

He explained that the program will clarify ADR principles and encourage participants to apply interest-based approaches in their peacebuilding efforts.

Topics covered include the Peace Council’s role as a neutral body, legal frameworks, qualities of a mediator, ethical standards in conflict resolution, managing hate speech, and practical simulations.

Bono Regional Chairperson of the Peace Council, Prof. Mrs. Mercy Adutwumwaa Derkyi, commended GIZ for its continued support and called for deeper collaboration to train more stakeholders across districts.

She encouraged participants to share the knowledge gained and make a tangible impact in their communities.