The Konkomba Youth Association (KOYA) and Dagbon Forum have joined forces to fight hate speech in the Northern Region and promote unity and understanding among residents.
This follows a recent surge of social media hate speeches targeting the Konkomba and Dagomba communities.
In a joint press release, both groups emphasized their commitment to maintaining peace and security for all communities in the region.
The leadership of KOYA and the entire Nkpakpaando, in close contact with the leadership of Dagbon Forum and the entire Dagbon, are actively working towards ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Konkombas and Dagombas.
Through ongoing dialogue and communication, they are addressing the tensions and seeking resolutions to mitigate potential conflicts.
Speaking about the situation, a representative from KOYA stated, “We recognize the concerns and anxieties that may arise in such situations, but we want to assure all Konkombas and Dagombas that there is no need for panic or fear. We are committed to fostering peaceful coexistence between our communities and ensuring their safety and wellbeing.”
Both KOYA and Dagbon Forum strongly condemned the dissemination of hateful and divisive rhetoric on social media platforms.
Such inflammatory content, they observed, not only stokes tension but also threatens social cohesion and has the potential to incite violence.
They indicated that respect, dialogue, and unity are the foundations for building a peaceful society.
“We urgently appeal to all members of the Konkomba and Dagomba communities to remain calm, exercise restraint, and reject the influence of those spreading hate speech.”
“We must recognize the destructive intent behind these incitements and respond collectively with reason and empathy,” emphasized a representative from Dagbon Forum.
The associations also called upon responsible social media users to report any hate-filled content encountered online to the appropriate platforms.
They believe that by working together, harmful speech can be prevented from proliferating and contributing to the creation of a safer and more inclusive digital environment.
Both KOYA and Dagbon Forum urged all Konkomba and Dagomba students and workers to continue with their daily routines without fear.
They assured the communities that efforts are being made to safeguard their well-being, understanding the importance of education and livelihoods.
They, however, cautioned residents of the Northern Region to be cautious of rumors and misinformation that may circulate during these challenging times.
They encouraged people to verify information through reputable sources and refrain from engaging in activities that may escalate tensions or contribute to misunderstandings.
The release further implored the government, community leaders, religious groups, and civil society organizations to actively engage in promoting peace-building initiatives and fostering understanding between the Konkomba and Dagomba communities.
They emphasized the shared responsibility of safeguarding peace and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
Law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities were also urged to investigate and take appropriate action against individuals found to be engaging in hate speech, in accordance with the laws governing society.
Highlighting their commitment to peaceful coexistence, KOYA, and Dagbon Forum expressed their determination to overcome the misguided actions of a few and build a society that values unity, tolerance, and respect for all.
They urged all Konkombas and Dagombas to go about their usual businesses and report anything suspicious to the security agencies as the community leaders and elders from both communities continue to engage in areas of mutual interest, including addressing food and nutrition insecurity, illiteracy, infant mortality, and underdevelopment.
