Youth and Conflict in the Volta Region: A Case of Peki and Awudome Relations, 1990-2013

Abstract

Inter and intra ethnic conflicts over land are many and could be found in almost every region in Ghana. These pose serious threat to peace, stability and development that the country seems to be enjoying, if not well managed. The study focused on the intra-ethnic conflict of Peki and Awudome in the Volta region of Ghana. The study, specifically, looked at the causes, sequence and effects of the conflict on the development of the youth in the areas of agriculture, education, health, security, commerce and social relations. It also looked at how the conflict has been resolved over the years and the prospects for lasting peace were examined. Purposive, snow ball and simple random sampling were used to select units for the sample from Peki, Awudome and the neighbouring communities. In-depth interviews, focus groups discussions and questionnaires were used to obtained data for the study. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentage were employed in the analysis of the data. The study revealed that the root cause of the conflict is a misunderstanding concerning the ownership of a land albeit historical antecedents. The conflict has become protracted due to historical legacies of hatred and mistrust. Consequently, youth development has been hampered as a result of the conflict. In attempt to resolve the conflict, Peki and Awudome have over the years resorted to the use of the court and mediation which could not work effectively. A number of measures and strategies have been recommended to achieve sustainable and lasting peace.