On Friday, September 20th, 2024, the National Peace Council – Eastern Regional Secretariat held the International Day of Peace Celebration at the Koforidua Cultural Center. The event, under the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace: The Role of Music and Arts in Ensuring Peaceful Elections 2024,” gathered key stakeholders from various sectors to advocate for peace, as Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections.
The program was chaired by Nana Opare Kwarfo I, Aburi Atweasin and Adehyehene of Akwapim Ahwerase, representing Otoobuor Djan Kwasi II (Aburihene and Adontenhene of the Akuapem Traditional Area). In his opening remarks, Nana Opare Kwarfo stressed on the crucial role of peace and unity in national development. He called on the general public to collaborate for a peaceful election, emphasizing that peace is the most vital asset a nation must safeguard.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Nana Opoku Amankwa, Kyidomhene of Kwahu Nkwatia, who represented Nana Owiredu Wadie I, Kwahu Nkosuo Hene and Peace Ambassador for the Eastern Region, and Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, Eastern Regional Minister, who was represented by Ms. Amofa Rachel Adjoa, a Deputy Director of the Eastern Regional Co-ordinating Council (ERCC). Others included Nana Twumasi Dankwa, Gyaasehene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, Alhaji Yussif Amdani Sulemana, Eastern Regional Chief Imam, as well as representatives from political parties, electoral commission, security services, Senior High Schools, religious leaders and other stakeholders.
The Regional Minister, Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, in his speech, delivered by Ms. Amofa Rachel Adjoa, emphasized the importance of peace as a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy. He noted that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, equality, and mutual respect. As the 2024 elections approach, he urged all Ghanaians to embrace these principles and work together to ensure a peaceful and democratic process. Hon. Acheampong also highlighted the role of music and the arts as powerful tools for spreading messages of unity, tolerance, and harmony, encouraging performers to use their talents to promote peace during the election period.
The Minister further stressed that peace must be actively nurtured and sustained through collective effort. He called on all stakeholders, civil societies, the media, and the public to commit to a non-violent electoral process, warning against hate speech and divisive discourse. He concluded by urging Ghanaians to safeguard the peace the nation enjoys, particularly for the youth, who represent the future of Ghana.
Nana Opoku Amankwa, representing Nana Owiredu Wadie I, also spoke on the importance of maintaining peace before and during the election period. He underscored the power of music and the arts as vital tools for peace advocacy and pledged One Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHc 100,000) to support the Peace Council’s activities in the region.
Dr. Mark Boadu, Chairman of the Peace Council, emphasized how creative arts such as music and dance serve as essential platforms for fostering unity and bridging divides within society. He reaffirmed the Peace Council’s commitment to remain apolitical in promoting peace.
Nana Twumasi Dankwa, Gyaasehene of New Juaben traditional Council, who represented Dasaebre Kwaku Boateng II, the Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, called for peaceful elections, urging citizens to vote responsibly and return home in one piece. He also urged traditional leaders to avoid engaging in illegal activities such as galamsey, which has become an environmental menace in the country.
The event was enriched by musical performances from groups such as the Oti Boateng Brass Band, Kwahu Youth Choir, Eastern Stars Chorale GH, and Koforidua Youth Choir, all of which echoed the theme of peace and unity. A drama performance on peaceful elections added a powerful visual message about the importance of peace during the electoral process, leaving a lasting impact on participants.
As the program concluded, Nana Opare Kwarfo I, reiterated the significance of collective efforts in safeguarding the peace that Ghana enjoys. He expressed gratitude to all the dignitaries and participants for their dedication to promoting peace and unity.
The Eastern Regional International Day of Peace Celebration 2024 successfully conveyed the message that peace is a shared responsibility, and through conscious collaborations, Ghanaians can ensure that the upcoming elections will be peaceful and conflict free.