The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has invited Ghana's Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, to participate in the Northern Peace Conference scheduled for October 26 to 27, 2026, in Tamale. The conference, to be held at the Global Dreams Hotel, aims to strengthen peacebuilding, social cohesion, and inclusive dialogue across Northern Ghana.
The two-day conference is being organised by the UNDP in partnership with the Parliamentary Northern Caucus, the National Peace Council, and the Northern Development Authority. These organisations seek to provide a strategic platform for stakeholders to reflect on emerging peace and security dynamics, share lessons from ongoing initiatives, and identify practical pathways for sustaining peace and development in the region.
According to the UNDP, Mr Ayariga's participation would be valuable given the Ministry's role in advancing peace, strengthening social cohesion, and supporting Ghana's sustainable development agenda. His participation, perspectives, and expertise are expected to enrich discussions and contribute significantly to shaping policy and programmatic actions aimed at advancing peacebuilding and sustainable development outcomes in Northern Ghana.
The conference will bring together policymakers, traditional authorities, civil society actors, development partners, youth and women representatives, security institutions, and other key stakeholders. The UNDP believes that this diverse participation will facilitate the sharing of lessons from ongoing initiatives and help identify practical pathways for sustaining peace and development in the region.
The Minister's office has been asked to confirm his participation by October 7, 2026. The UNDP has indicated that a representative will follow up with the Ministry to address any questions or clarifications ahead of the conference. This invitation and forthcoming participation underscore the Ministry's commitment to advancing peace and sustainable development in Ghana.
The Northern Peace Conference is part of the UNDP's ongoing efforts to promote peacebuilding and social cohesion in Northern Ghana. By hosting this conference, the UNDP and its partners aim to promote inclusive dialogue and foster collaboration among stakeholders to address emerging peace and security dynamics in the region.
The invitation to Mr Ayariga and the forthcoming conference demonstrate the importance of collaboration and partnership in promoting peace and sustainable development in Ghana. The UNDP and its partners are committed to supporting Ghana's efforts to achieve sustainable development and peacebuilding outcomes, particularly in Northern Ghana.
Key points
- UNDP invites Ghana's Local Government Minister to Northern Peace Conference
- Conference aims to strengthen peacebuilding and social cohesion in Northern Ghana
- Minister's participation valued for advancing peace and sustainable development agenda
