ASUDEV and ActionAid Ghana Lead Dialogue to End Farmer-Fulbe Herder Conflict in Sissala East
Efforts to stop violence between farmers and Fulbe herders have been intensified in the Sissala East Municipality, after a joint municipal forum by ASUDEV and ActionAid Ghana on the 2nd of July, 2026.
The program, held at the Tumu Municipal Assembly Hall, brought together 10 selected communities. Findings from 8 communities were presented, all focused on ending conflict and protecting livelihoods.
Key causes of the tension, according to the findings, include land and water scarcity, crop destruction by cattle left unattended at long distances, and poor cooperation during investigations. Other issues raised include cattle poisoning and farmers cultivating too close to Fulbe settlements, leaving no grazing space.
ASUDEV’s Executive Director, Mr. Osman Kanton, expressed concern over the use of child herders.
“Children are often playful and in most cases are incapable of managing cattle,” he said. Mr. Kanton also noted that some herders have been threatening women with cutlasses.
He further urged Fulbe families to prioritize education.
“Fulbe children in school are usually very intelligent,” he stated.
Herders also raised their concerns, citing the absence of clear cattle routes and the refusal of some owners to build kraals.
A traditional leader, Kuoro Tortimah J. Nansia of Kulfuo, called for action, “Every community should get land for cattle to feed on. Every section should have a place, and any section that refuses will not be allowed to rear cattle,” he said.
Community voices were also heard. Sala Mohammed from Bugubelle recounted how cattle destroyed her beans farm last year.
A SAVE Ghana MEL Officer, Mr. Jordan Benpula, stressed the need for inclusive dialogue. He said Fulbe leaders and women must be part of decision-making to create lasting peace. He also use the initiative to inform the public about the by- laws on farmer- herder that has already been established and gazetted and will take effect soon.
Sildep Representative, Madam Kapiah Forkah Bimata, cited Chinchang as a positive example for designating specific grazing areas. She added that the Fulbe community has shown willingness to collaborate for peaceful coexistence with the Sissala people.
In closing, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Yakubu Adam, assured participants that the Assembly remains open to supporting projects that promote peace between farmers and herders.
By Zulfa Lawie