President John Dramani Mahama has announced the establishment of a GH₵1 billion Bawku Restoration Fund to support infrastructure development and stimulate economic activities in the Bawku area, as part of efforts to restore stability and improve livelihoods.

The fund will be disbursed over a three-year period and will finance the reconstruction of critical infrastructure as well as other development interventions aimed at reviving economic life in the area.

To ensure effective management and accountability, a committee chaired by the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has been constituted to oversee the disbursement and utilisation of the funds.

President Mahama made the announcement when the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs paid a courtesy call on him at the Presidency in Accra.

He stressed the crucial role of traditional authorities in peacebuilding and reconciliation, describing their engagement as central to resolving the long-standing conflict in Bawku.

The president expressed deep concern about the human cost of the conflict, disclosing that about 119 people lost their lives during mediation efforts led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

He noted that the scale of the violence underscores the urgent need for all parties to embrace peace.

President Mahama appealed for calm and restraint, urging stakeholders to give peace a chance, saying Bawku has endured far too many violent killings and prolonged suffering.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with traditional leaders, security agencies, and local communities to consolidate peace and accelerate development in the area.