By Peter Agengre
Catholic Relief Services (CRS), in collaboration with the National Peace Council, has presented findings from a study examining the factors shaping vulnerability to violent extremism across Northern Ghana. The research identified youth unemployment, poverty, governance challenges and unresolved local conflicts as major factors that could increase vulnerability to violent extremism if left unaddressed.
Despite these challenges, the study highlighted the resilience of local communities, pointing to trusted traditional and religious leaders, strong family support systems and social cohesion as important assets for preventing the spread of violent extremism.
Participants noted that promoting inclusive governance, creating sustainable employment opportunities for young people, strengthening trust between communities and state institutions, and supporting community-led initiatives are essential to addressing grievances before they escalate into security threats. The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts by CRS and the National Peace Council to strengthen community resilience and support preventive measures aimed at preserving peace and stability in Northern Ghana.
The engagement brought together representatives from government institutions, security agencies, civil society organizations, traditional and religious leaders, development partners, academia and the media to discuss strategies for safeguarding Ghana’s peace amid growing security threats in the Sahel.
