NAVRONGO: Assembly members and unit committees in the Kassena Nankana Municipality of Ghana's Upper East Region have pledged to spearhead sensitization efforts to combat violent extremism within their communities. This initiative follows recent training organized by the Upper East Regional Peace Council as part of the Atlantic Corridor Project, which aims to address the root causes of radicalization. According to Ghana News Agency, the training workshop, held over two days in Navrongo, equipped opinion leaders from various electoral areas with insights into conflict dynamics, violent extremism impacts on economic activities, and early warning signs. Participants also studied the Land Act (Act 1036) to enhance their ability to counter extremist ideologies. The initiative received financial backing from the government of Norway through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Mr. John Teddy Kwolaga Addah, an Assembly member from the Nogsenia Electoral Area, emphasized the importance of the training in identifying potential threats to community peace. He noted issues such as the formation of ghettos and an influx of foreigners engaging in various commercial activities, including sex work, as areas of concern that require immediate attention. Madam Christina Pwayirane, a government appointee assembly member, highlighted the significance of including the Land Act in the training, given that over 70 percent of conflicts in the municipality are land-related. She expressed her commitment to advocating for land registration among residents. Kassena Nankana Municipal Chief Executive, Mr. Joseph Adongo, praised the Peace Council and its partners for enhancing the capacity of local leaders in preventing violent extremism. He emphasized the assembly's focus on municipal security and expressed gratitude for the council's proactive efforts. Mr. Ali Anankpieng, the Upper Regional Secretary of the Peace Council, reiterated the importance of building community resilience against violent extremism. He acknowledged the s upport of international partners, including the governments of Denmark, Germany, and Australia, in facilitating the project.