Members of the Scout and Guide Fellowship Ghana (SGFG) have recently announced their initiative to organize a Peace Walk, intended to promote peace ahead of the upcoming December elections. This commitment involves a seven-day journey from the historic Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, located in the Ashanti Region, to the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra, the Greater Accra Region. Scheduled from November 21 to 29, the Peace Walk aims to serve as a rallying point for Ghanaians to come together in the spirit of unity and peace. The announcement was made at a news conference on October 31, 2024, where the President of SGFG, Dr. Andrew Botchwey, outlined the mission and objectives driving this initiative.
Dr. Botchwey emphasized that the Peace Walk is grounded in the core values of Scouts and Guides—respect, harmony, and service. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to contributing positively to peacebuilding efforts in Ghana. By launching the Peace Gathering 2024 campaign, SGFG calls on Ghanaians to set aside personal and political differences, urging citizens to celebrate their shared identity as a means of fostering peace in the nation. This message is particularly resonant considering the significance of the upcoming elections, during which tensions can often escalate, making a unified approach critical.
Central to the theme of this year’s initiative is “A Call to Unity: Fly the Flag for Peace.” Dr. Botchwey described the Peace Walk not merely as a physical journey, but as a powerful symbol of national pride and collective responsibility. The theme encapsulates the essence of their message, encouraging Ghanaians to come together and participate in the peace campaign. By walking from Kumasi to Accra, participants will not only advocate for peace but also celebrate what it means to be Ghanaian, reinforcing the idea of unity amidst diversity.
In conjunction with the Peace Walk, Dr. Botchwey made a call to action urging all Ghanaians to display the national flag prominently in their homes, cars, shops, and public spaces. He conveyed that this simple act could serve as a tangible expression of one’s commitment to the country, fostering a sense of solidarity and togetherness. According to him, such displays are not just symbolic but represent a pledge to uphold peace and unity across the nation. This initiative seeks to create a visual manifestation of Ghanaian pride and encourage widespread participation in the peace campaign.
Moreover, Dr. Botchwey urged political leaders to abandon violence in favor of peaceful dialogue, stressing the importance of constructive communication in promoting harmony. He called on community leaders to play a pivotal role in fostering inclusiveness, thereby creating an environment conducive to tranquil interactions among citizens. By advocating for respectful discourse and cooperative engagement, the SGFG aims to establish a foundation for lasting peace, particularly during a politically charged period.
As the Peace Walk approaches, the SGFG’s broader goal is to mobilize the citizenry and inspire a collective effort toward national cohesion. This initiative resonates deeply within the context of Ghana’s democratic processes, encouraging individuals from all walks of life to come together to advocate for peace. Through their collaborative efforts, the SGFG aims to reinforce the importance of shared values and responsibilities, ultimately striving for a united Ghana as the nation prepares for the consequential elections ahead.
