Krachi East NCCE engages youth groups on PCVE

The Krachi East Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education with support from the European Union (EU) has engaged 18 youth groups in the Krachi East Municipality at the Church of Pentecost, Dambai Central Assembly on how they can help prevent and contain violent extremism in their communities.

Participants were mainly members of the Chonke Youth, Lakeside Youth, Youth Parliament, Public Services Workers Union Youths, Kwame Akura Youths, and the Youth of the Local Council of Churches. Others are the Banka Youth, Wankayaw Youth, Barbers Association Youth, Tailors and Dressmakers Youth, Hairdressers Association Youth, Christ the King Catholic Youth, CLOSAG Youth, Fulani Youth, and Okada Youth.

The Deputy Director of NCCE, Oti Regional office, Francis Dusey said violent extremists mostly target young people for recruitment into extremist groups. He urged the youth to watch out for such lives by strange individuals who infiltrate communities to carry out such plans.

The Municipal Police Commander, SP Samuel Aboagye spoke to the participants on community surveillance, awareness creation at worship centres, possible signs of radicalization, and neighbourhood watch/community patrol. He cited isolation from friends/families, unwillingness to discuss some issues with others, sudden disrespectful attitude towards others and increase level of secretiveness, especially around the internet as some of the signs of radicalization.

On the issue of community surveillance, he advised the youth to volunteer, be watchful and give out the necessary information about any suspected characters to the security services that will aid their work. He added that Churches, Mosques, and other public gatherings should always be vigilant to avoid any possible violent attacks. “Call these toll-free numbers; 999, 191, and 18555, and report any suspicious characters”, he added.

Pastor Michael Osei Frimpong who spoke on peace-building mechanisms advised the youth to work hard and cherish the country's peace in Ghana.

The Municipal NCCE Director Mr Clement Kwesi Mamadu thanked the youth and admonished them to be ambassadors of peace and agents of change in their communities. He expressed gratitude to the EU for supporting the program.

The Youths in a communique expressed their willingness to provide information to the security agencies to help prevent extremists into the Krachi East Municipality. and called on authorities to help improve the road network in town, and provide street lights in their communities.

About sixty (60) people participated in the program.

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