The continuous decline of Ghana’s ranking on the global peace index has alarmed the National Peace Council.
Ghana has reportedly lost ground from its enviable positions both globally and in the sub-region, claims the Council.
In the 2022 Global Peace Index, Ghana was ranked as the most peaceful nation in West Africa, second in Africa, and 40th overall.
However, according to the National Peace Council, the 2023 index saw a deep fall of Ghana from the 40th position in the world in 2022 to the 51st, from the 2nd position in Africa to the 4th position, and second in West Africa.
The National Peace Council considers this to be cause for concern and urges all Ghanaians to work together to strengthen and maintain the nation’s peace.
“According to the 2023 global peace index, Ghana has lost its enviable position as the most peaceful country in West Africa to Senegal. In 2022, Ghana was the second-most peaceful country in Africa, first in West Africa, and 40th in the world.
“However, the 2023 report ranking saw a deep fall from the 40th position in 2022 to the 51st position in 2023 as the most peaceful country in the world, as well as from the 2nd position in Africa to the 4th position in 2023. This is a cause for worry, and we must all work hard to bring back the glory.” The Eastern Regional Chairman of the National Peace Council, Dr. Mark Boadu, said this during the celebration of International Peace Day observed globally on September 21st.
He emphasised that achieving the sustainable development goals’ objectives—in particular, eradicating hunger and poverty—is essential to maintaining peace in the nation.
Dr. Mark Boadu said that although the Eastern region is peaceful, chieftaincy disputes and associated conflicts continue to pose a threat to that peace.
Seth Kwame Acheampong, the Eastern Regional Minister, encouraged everyone in the region to commit to and demonstrate peacebuilding in all endeavours.
He said, “Let’s reject intolerance and discrimination, ethnicity, and tribalism, and recognise that diversity enriches society and promotes mutual coexistence.”
The National Peace Council honoured the Nkosuohene of Kwahu – Nkwatia, Nana Owiredu Wadie I, as well as some individuals and organisations, for their contributions to promoting peace and a culture of love.
Nana Owiredu Wadie I, chairman of the Kabaka Foundation, a non-profit charity organisation, received the overall prestigious “Eastern Regional Peace Ambassador Award” for his efforts to accelerate development in accordance with sustainable development goals.
The National Peace Council citation recognised Nana Owiredu Wadie I for his outstanding support in mobilising people and resources for peacebuilding, gender equality, equal participation, and women’s empowerment, among other things. The council could not help but choose him as the award winner.
“He satisfied five of the Sustainable Development Goals in the areas of” no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education and peace, justice, and strong institutions.”