- Bono East Regional Minister calls for an end to chieftaincy and land disputes
- Minister warns that conflicts drain resources and delay development
- Security measures have reduced armed robbery incidents in the region
The Bono East Regional Minister, Francis Owusu Antwi, has urged traditional authorities in the region to refrain from engaging in prolonged chieftaincy and land disputes, emphasizing that such conflicts hinder development and deplete the region’s limited resources.
Speaking at a grand durbar to launch the Nkyifie@60 festival in Prang, Mr. Antwi underscored the need to prioritize peace and progress over unnecessary disagreements.
“Our region has limited resources and time, which should be directed towards development, not prolonged conflicts,” he said.
He appealed to chiefs and kingmakers to adhere to traditional customs, legal frameworks, and due processes during succession and enstoolment of new chiefs, warning that unresolved disputes only derail regional progress.
The Minister also addressed the rising concern over armed robbery in the Bono East Region, assuring residents that effective security measures were already yielding results.
He revealed that following discussions with the Minister for the Interior in Accra, improved security interventions had been rolled out, leading to a noticeable reduction in robbery incidents.
“Armed robbery remains a major challenge in the Bono East Region. But thanks to the support of President John Dramani Mahama and our Member of Parliament, decisive steps have been taken to curb these attacks,” Mr. Antwi noted.
He added that the President has pledged to deploy as many police officers as necessary to ensure peace and security in the region, emphasizing that maintaining peace is a shared priority.
Mr. Antwi also pointed to poor road infrastructure as a contributing factor to highway robberies, explaining that criminals often take advantage of bad roads to ambush travelers.
He assured residents that the government is committed to completing all ongoing road projects.
“The Prang–Kintampo road will not be abandoned. The contractor will stay on site until the project is completed. Also, patching works will soon begin on the Ejura–Atebubu–Yeji road to improve travel conditions,” he stated.
Representing President Mahama, the Minister reiterated the government’s focus on three pressing issues in the region: chieftaincy disputes, land conflicts, and tensions between farmers and Fulani herdsmen.
“The President is determined to resolve these long-standing challenges, as they are crucial to achieving lasting peace and sustainable development in Bono East,” he emphasized.
The event brought together key dignitaries, including the Member of Parliament for Pru West, Emmanuel Kofi Ntekuni, District Chief Executives, and other regional leaders.
The Paramount Chief of the Prang Traditional Council, Nana Kwadwo Nyarko III, who has led for 60 years, expressed heartfelt gratitude to his sub-chiefs and subjects for their unwavering support throughout his reign.
“Together, we’ve achieved a great deal through unity and dedication. Let’s continue to stand united to drive further development in Prang,” Nana Nyarko said.
Chairing the event, Nana Adu Kofi Baah, Kyidomhene of the Wiase Traditional Council, praised Nana Nyarko III as a “Chief of Development,” highlighting his enduring contributions to Prang’s growth.
“Nana Kwadwo Nyarko III is a shining example of visionary leadership. His legacy of peace and development should inspire other traditional leaders,” he remarked.
The launch of Nkyifie@60 was celebrated with vibrant cultural displays, drumming, and dancing—honoring six decades of tradition, unity, and progress under the leadership of Nana Nyarko III.
