The long-standing feud between Fulani herders and local farmers in the Bono East Region has escalated into violence. The misunderstanding at times ended in shooting incidents, resulting in casualties. The conflict, deeply rooted in disputes over land use and cattle rearing, continues to threaten the region’s stability, despite recent calls for dialogue and interventions by regional authorities. This had been the major complaint of the chiefs visited.
Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, the Bono East Regional Minister, has publicly appealed to traditional leaders and stakeholders to find a lasting resolution to the conflict, which is becoming increasingly untenable in this region, widely regarded as Ghana’s food basket. The minister emphasized that the cattle-rearing activities, while economically significant, have also become a major source of tension and insecurity, especially as they encroach on farmlands, leading to the destruction of crops and human deaths.
In his remarks, Hon. Owusu Antwi highlighted that prominent personalities are allegedly involved in sustaining the widespread cattle rearing, complicating efforts to halt the practice and resolve disputes. This involvement, the minister suggested, undermines previous attempts by local authorities to stem the rising tensions.
Hon. Owusu Antwi expressed deep concern over the recent violence and condemned the use of firearms and any form of violence to settle disputes. “If traditional leaders and stakeholders fail to curtail this menace, the Regional Security Council (RESEC) will be compelled to take stricter measures to restore peace and order,” he warned.
Traditional councils and security agencies in Bono East have been urged to intensify their engagements with both Fulani herders and farming communities to devise a mutually agreeable solution. The minister’s call also included a plea for national attention and support to address the complexities of cattle rearing in a way that safeguards both economic interests and the security of residents.
The conflict between herders and farmers in Bono East reflects a broader national challenge, with increasing calls for sustainable policies that balance agricultural productivity with pastoral activities. The recent hard talks from the chiefs remind us of what could happen if decisive action is not taken promptly, the minister said.
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