More than 150 residents from Jang, Chieyiri and Don-arayiri in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District have received training on how to identify hate speech, misinformation and disinformation as part of efforts to prevent conflict and violent extremism.
The initiative, led by the Savannah Regional Peace Council with support from the Embassies of Norway and Denmark through the United Nations Development Programme, forms part of the project, “Preventing and Responding to Violent Extremism in the Atlantic Corridor.”
Traditional authorities, religious leaders, assembly members, unit committee members, women and youth groups participated in the community dialogues and capacity-building sessions.
Kennedy Atiibo said hate speech and false information remained major threats to peace and social cohesion, warning that divisive narratives could make communities vulnerable to violence and extremist influences.
He noted that while people may hold different opinions, the use of inflammatory or misleading language often deepens divisions and creates unnecessary tensions.
Participants were trained to recognise harmful narratives, understand the connection between misinformation and conflict, and develop alternative messages that promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
They were also educated on Ghana’s laws on free speech, including restrictions on false information that causes panic or incites violence.
Mr Atiibo encouraged residents to verify information before sharing it and to become peace ambassadors in their communities by speaking against hate speech and misinformation.
