Jihadists may exploit Bawku conflict in Ghana

Significance

The ongoing violence centres on disputes between the Mamprusi and Kusasi communities over control of the local chieftaincy. In the current context of increasing jihadist encroachment in neighbouring areas of Burkina Faso, it has raised fears of a looming jihadist threat.

Impacts

• Efforts may be made to refer the dispute to the National House of Chiefs, the body representing Ghana's traditional rulers.
• Ghana's ongoing debt crisis may limit the government's ability to reduce local youth unemployment.
• The growing risk of food insecurity in northern Ghana could intensify tensions in Bawku.