Bawku Conflict: Open letter to UN Security Council President

April 15, 2025

To: His Excellency,
President of the United Nations Security Council
United Nations Headquarters
New York, NY, USA

Subject: Urgent Appeal for Intervention in the Ongoing Conflict in Bawku, Ghana

Dear Your Excellency,

I am a concerned Ghanaian-born American citizen. I am also a graduate student at the University of Massachusetts. I am pursuing a degree in Information Technology with a focus on Cybersecurity.

I write to inform you about escalating violence in Bawku, Ghana. This border town is located in the Upper East Region. The community of Pusiga is particularly affected. Bawku has around 125,000 residents, mostly vulnerable women and children living in poverty.

Just yesterday, a close friend contacted me. He recently joined the Ghana Police Service and was deployed to Bawku. I have known him for over ten years and trust his judgment. He described the situation as dire and warlike.

In the past three weeks, deadly clashes have occurred between two factions. They are using advanced weapons similar to those of security forces. My friend narrowly escaped death when a bullet missed him by inches. Tragically, three colleagues were hit; two died instantly while one was airlifted for treatment.

Reliable sources report that over 300 lives have been lost so far. The conflict's advanced weaponry makes it more devastating and hard to control. Government responses seem delayed or politically motivated rather than focused on restoring peace.

I know Bawku well; many families live on less than $5 daily. Countless children are out of school or at risk due to violence. This region cannot afford to lose another generation to war.

Your Excellency, I urgently appeal for your intervention. Please initiate dialogue with President John Mahama of Ghana. His leadership could help mediate tensions effectively. I also urge the Council to highlight the need for humanitarian assistance in this area.

This morning, I learned that His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II will mediate between factions soon. While this is hopeful news, international support is crucial for lasting peace.

The killing must stop immediately. Lives are at stake; your action can make a difference.

With deep respect and hope,

Victor Hayibor
Graduate Student, University of Massachusetts
Naturalized U.S. Citizen
Ghanaian by birth