He attributed the relative calm to ongoing dialogue and peacebuilding efforts involving traditional authorities, security personnel, religious leaders and other stakeholders working to end the conflict and restore lasting peace.

Speaking before Parliament’s Local Government and Rural Development Committee, Mr. Awal said several committees had been established to engage residents and address the underlying tensions.

These include a Diaspora Committee comprising natives of Nkwanta living outside the municipality, retired police and security officers, the Peace Council, the Catholic Bishop, traditional leaders and local peace committees.

“We have a lot of committees working to make sure the conflict comes to an end. For almost six months now, we’ve not had any bad news, and we are still engaging to make sure we get the total peace we want,” he said.

He stressed that sustained engagement among the various stakeholders remained essential to consolidating the gains and preventing a resurgence of violence.

Curfew Yet to Be Reviewed

Despite the relative calm, Mr. Awal disclosed that the curfew imposed on the municipality had not been reviewed, although the Assembly had submitted reports and held approximately three meetings on the matter.

He said some security measures were being implemented discreetly and could not be discussed publicly, expressing hope that the curfew would soon be reviewed to allow businesses and other economic activities to operate more freely.

The continued restrictions remain a concern for residents and businesses seeking a return to normal economic and social activities.

Nkwanta MCE Appeals for Lasting Peace

In an emotional appeal, the MCE called on chiefs, opinion leaders and residents to put aside their differences and work towards lasting peace.

He emphasised that sustained development, improved education and access to quality healthcare would remain difficult to achieve without security and stability.

“That is the only way that we can get development. That is the only way that can give our children better education, good health care facilities, and get professionals posted to Nkwanta South. Let’s smoke the peace pipe and let peace reign in Nkwanta South,” he pleaded.

His appeal comes as stakeholders continue efforts to restore confidence, strengthen community relations and create conditions for normal life to resume fully in the municipality.

Nkwanta South Assembly Tackles Infrastructure Deficits

Beyond peacebuilding, Mr. Awal outlined development initiatives undertaken since he assumed office on April 10, 2025, identifying educational infrastructure and access to basic services as key priorities.

He said the Assembly had provided educational facilities and procured furniture to address a 40 per cent furniture deficit identified by the Municipal Education Directorate.

“We hope this year when we procure we can cure that situation,” he said, expressing optimism that further procurement would help bridge the gap.

On water and electricity, the MCE said the Assembly was working to improve access to water, lobbying for electricity extensions to communities and awaiting the installation of meters. Solar panels were also being installed in hard-to-reach communities to improve access to electricity.

Regarding roads, he said the Assembly was engaging the Department of Feeder Roads and other organisations to reshape and improve the condition of roads, particularly those used by farmers to transport their produce.

Mr. Awal attributed the Assembly’s progress to support from President John Dramani Mahama and the Member of Parliament for Nkwanta South.

He has however made an appeal to the Minister of Roads and highways to help locate and bring back CNF Construction Limited to come and complete the Brewaniase, Pusupu-Bontibor Road which has been abandoned by the contractor for more than 6 months now. According to the MCE, all efforts to locate the contractor has proven futile. All their calls are not being responded to.

He maintained that continued cooperation among government, traditional authorities, security agencies and residents would be critical to sustaining the prevailing calm and accelerating development across the municipality.

Source: parliamentnews360.com