Ghanaian CSOs train to counter violent extremism in northern regions

Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Ghana's northern regions are undergoing intensive training to bolster their capacity in preventing violent extremism. More than 40 representatives from five northern regions are participating in a five-day program in Bolgatanga, designed to equip them with practical skills to identify emerging threats and strengthen community resilience.

The initiative, organized by Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in collaboration with the National Peace Council (NPC) and the West Africa Centre for Counter Extremism (WACCE), is funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It focuses on empowering CSOs to recognize vulnerabilities within their communities, promote social cohesion, and support local efforts to preemptively address grievances that extremist groups might exploit.

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Communities are the first line of defence against violent extremism, and CSOs are among the most trusted actors within our communities

This training comes at a critical time, as concerns grow over the spread of violent extremism in neighboring countries and across the Sahel region. Recent research by CRS and the NPC highlighted significant factors contributing to community vulnerability in Ghana's north. These include high youth unemployment, poverty, inadequate educational opportunities, substance abuse, and a perception of weak governance.

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efforts to prevent violent extremism should go beyond conventional security responses.

Notably, 86 percent of respondents in the research identified youth unemployment as a primary driver of vulnerability. This underscores the critical need to address socio-economic challenges facing young people as a core strategy in preventing violent extremism. The training will delve into the drivers, manifestations, and consequences of extremism, emphasizing community engagement and collaboration among local stakeholders.

Adelaide Yiriyelleh, Project Manager at CRS Ghana, stressed the strategic importance of CSOs, stating, "Communities are the first line of defence against violent extremism, and CSOs are among the most trusted actors within our communities." Mutaru Mumuni Muqthar, Executive Director of WACCE, added that preventing extremism requires a multi-faceted approach beyond conventional security measures, acknowledging the interplay of social, economic, political, and governance factors.

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violent extremism was often influenced by a combination of social, economic, political and governance factors, making it necessary for CSOs and communities t