Security agencies and peacebuilding stakeholders in the Upper East Region are pushing for greater youth involvement in efforts to prevent violent extremism, warning that young people remain both the most vulnerable targets for recruitment and the strongest line of defence against growing security threats.
At a training workshop in Bolgatanga for 50 youth leaders, officials stressed that empowering young people with skills in intelligence gathering, early warning systems and peace education could help curb violence in border communities. They noted that many conflicts are often driven by youth involvement, making their engagement critical to preventing radicalisation and criminal activity.
Stakeholders also raised concerns over the growing influx of illegal arms and drugs linked to instability in neighbouring Sahel countries. They urged young people to report suspicious activities, resist extremist narratives on social media and work closely with security agencies, traditional leaders and civil society groups to protect communities from emerging threats.
