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Category: Security and Culture

  • Potential of Kings and Chiefs as Stakeholders in Development

    Last year’s historic visit by H.R.M.,the Yogbonwura(King of the Yogboun or Gonja Kingdom),Savannah Region, to the Dagbon Kingdom, Northern Region of Ghana which was reciprocated by its King,H.R.M.,the Yaa Na,tends calls for a rethinking of the position of Kings and Chiefs collectively  as potential stakeholders within the context of our national economic development paradigm

    Key Takeaways

    The benefits of the two royal visits included engendering of mutual respect and  peaceful co-existence between the two Kingdoms ,opportunity for addressing the boundary disputes between the two Kingdoms through dialogue and peaceful means .

    The call of His Royal Majesty, the Yogbounwura on the youth of the two Kingdoms to foster meaningful engagement for development was yet a most important takeaway. Granted the passion and importance the two Kings have attached to the fostering of mutual respect and  peaceful co-existence between their two Kingdoms, the issue of sustainability becomes crucial. The involvement of the youth in the two Kingdoms is the right way to go as they are the future traditional leaders.

    Annual Conference of Kings and Chiefs in Northern Ghana Proposal

    The Yogbounwura during his historic visit to Dagbon last year had  proposed the establishment of an annual conference of Kings and Chiefs in Northern Ghana to focus on the collective developments of the territory.

    That was laudable and couldn’t have come at a better time than this. That traditional rulers and their people shouldn’t rest entirely on the responsibility of central governments alone  to bring development to the Northern sector ,but should also play important  complementary roles ,cannot be overemphasized.

    To this end the people of the Northern Sector need a unified front to enable them leverage their collective strength for contributing towards addressing their  age-long common problem of the North-South poverty ,education and development gap which is a major underlying factor to the Northern youth migration to the south.

    Putting the collective strength of the people of the North to productive use for shared prosperity and development is not only in the collective interest of the people, but the cumulative impact of their collective efforts, would also impact the gross national economy most positively.

    Yogboun,Dagbon,Mamprugu,Nanun and other parts of the Northern sector collectively accounts for  a sizable chunk of Ghana’s total arable land which could be put to more productive use for commercial rice and other crops  production. This could  save the country from the needless annual rice and agricultural products bill that also contributes to putting  pressure on the local cedi.

    The putting in place of a Northern sector Special Purpose Vehicle(SPV) like is being proposed would offer multiple benefits. These could  include, internal conflict resolution as well as prevention via, fostering intra-ethnic harmony peaceful co-existence, addressing problems and  misunderstandings through dialogue rather than through needless armed conflict, that tend to periodically put the North in the news, albeit for the wrong reasons.

    To this end,the call on their Royal Majesties,Ndan Yaa Na,Mahama Abukari II,King of Dagbon Kingdom and Bi-Kunuti Jewu Soale,the Yogounwura(King of Yogboun or Gonja Kingdom) by the Savannah Regional Minister,Mr.Salisu Bi-Awuribe to use their influence to solve the long standing chieftaincy crisis in Bawku,Upper East Region ,was another most important takeaway.

    Intra-ethnic conflicts in the Northern sector has over time  given it a negative image not only in international investor circles, but also, in local investor circles and the decades  North-South  Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) parities speaks for itself.

    Harnessing the potential of Kings and Chiefs across the country to play a more  important contributive role as local development stakeholders within the context of our  national economic development agenda, ought to be taken   seriously just as we  take the contribution of our foreign development partners.

  • Dagbon King’s Reciprocal Visit to Yogbun Kingdom in Photos

  • Kaspersky Predicts Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Privacy to Shape Consumer Cybersecurity Landscape in 2025

    Kaspersky Predicts Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Privacy to Shape Consumer Cybersecurity Landscape in 2025

    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, December 4, 2024/ — According to Kaspersky’s (www.Kaspersky.co.za) latest report, artificial intelligence (AI) will become an integral part of daily life, while privacy concerns around biometric data and advanced technologies will take center stage in 2025. These forecasts are part of the annual Kaspersky Security Bulletin series, which provides an outlook on the cybersecurity trends and threats expected to impact consumers in the coming year.

    AI becomes an everyday reality

    AI is predicted to fully integrate into daily life in 2025, becoming a standard tool rather than a novel technology. With prominent operating systems like iOS and Android rolling out AI-enhanced features, people will increasingly rely on AI for communication, workflows, and creative tasks. However, this normalisation also brings challenges, particularly as personalised deepfakes become increasingly sophisticated in the absence of reliable detection tools.

    Privacy regulations will expand user data ownership

    The growing emphasis on privacy is expected to lead to new regulations that strengthen user control over personal data. By 2025, individuals may gain the right to monetise their data, transfer it easily across platforms, and benefit from simplified consent processes. Global frameworks, such as the EU’s GDPR, California’s CPRA and South Africa’s POPIA, continue to inspire reforms worldwide, while decentralised storage technologies could further strengthen user autonomy over their information.

    Fraudsters will continue to exploit premieres and releases

    Cybercriminals are expected to target prominent gaming, console, and film launches in 2025. Titles like Mafia: The Old Country, Civilization VII, and Death Stranding 2, as well as the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, are likely to attract scams involving fake pre-orders, counterfeit rootkits, and malicious downloads. Similarly, blockbuster films like Superman and Jurassic World Rebirth may trigger phishing campaigns and counterfeit merchandise fraud aimed at enthusiastic fanbases.

    Political polarisation will fuel cyberbullying

    Increasing political polarisation is expected to exacerbate cyberbullying in 2025. Social media algorithms that amplify divisive content, combined with the widespread availability of AI tools for creating deep fakes and doctored posts, are likely to intensify online harassment. Cross-border cyberbullying could also escalate as global platforms facilitate the targeting of individuals based on their political beliefs.

    Rising number of subscription services will fuel fraud risks

    As the global economy shifts further towards subscription-based models, a rise in fraud related to fake subscription promotions is expected. Cybercriminals are expected to create counterfeit services that mimic legitimate platforms, aiming to deceive users into providing personal and financial information, resulting in identity theft and financial losses. Additionally, the growth of unofficial resources that provide discounted or free access to subscription services is expected to become a significant threat vector, exposing users to phishing attacks, malware, and data breaches.

    Prohibition of social media for children may lead to broader user restrictions

    Australia’s proposed legislation to ban social media access for children under 16 could set a global precedent. If implemented successfully, the restriction could pave the way for broader limitations on access for other demographics. Platforms like Instagram have already begun adopting AI-powered age-verification systems, signaling a shift toward stricter governance of online spaces.

    “As we look to 2025, the most significant impact on consumers is expected to arise from the intersection of innovation and regulation. Advances in AI, privacy protection, and data ownership frameworks will reshape the way people interact with technology and manage their digital lives. These developments hold immense potential but also demand careful oversight to ensure they serve consumer interests,” said Anna Larkina, Kaspersky privacy expert.

    To learn more, visit Securelist.com.

    To stay safe, Kaspersky experts also recommend:

    • Enable a safe browsing feature, such as the one in Kaspersky Premium (https://apo-opa.co/3BdtgPp), to help avoid Internet tracking. This feature also protects users from dangerous sites (like phishing ones), malware, and other maliciously installed files and extensions.
    • Configure your social networks for enhanced privacy to make a difference. Services such as Privacy Checker (https://Privacy.Kaspersky.com) can help users adjust privacy settings and strengthen the protection of their personal accounts. In addition, modern security solutions often include features that enhance privacy levels across various social networks.
    • Opt for secure and private connections. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities. Consider using a reliable VPN (https://apo-opa.co/3Bcqz0y) to encrypt your Internet connection and protect your online activities from being monitored.
    • Install apps only from official stores like the Apple App Store, Google Play or the Amazon Appstore. Although apps from these markets are not 100 percent failsafe, at least they are checked by store representatives, and a filtration system is in place – not every app is authorised for listing on these platforms.
    • Download a reliable security solution (https://apo-opa.co/3BdtgPp) to help you detect malicious apps and adware before they can harm your device.
    • Don’t share serial numbers, IP addresses and other sensitive information regarding your smart devices on social networks.
    • Avoid using unreliable passwords. Weak combinations, such as those consisting of letters only, do not offer sufficient protection. For added convenience and security, consider using a special app, such as the Kaspersky Password Manager (https://apo-opa.co/3OGpYHu).
    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.

    For further information please contact:
    Nicole Allman
    INK&Co. (https://INKandCo.co.za)
    nicole@inkandco.co.za

  • Kulkpiniduli market Establishment Issue brought to rest

    Kulkpiniduli market Establishment Issue brought to rest

    Story: Abdul Razak Mohammed

    The reported near stand-off between Dagomba and Konkomba youth group opponents and proponents to the planned establishment of a new market on the 23rd August at Kulkpiniduli in the Yendi Municipality and Mion District in Ghana’s Northern Region, has been brought to rest as the  Dagbon Traditional Council(DTC) intervened  and stamped its authority on the matter.

    This yet another undesirable  development nearly took the shine out of a pragmatic Dagomba-Konkomba peace restoration, building and conservation initiative pursued following the 6th August,2024 community violence at Zobgei, also in the Yendi Municipality and Mion District.

    Both communities are found in Mion and traditionally under His Royal Highness, the Mion-Lana (Mion Paramount Chief),

    In a ban notification letter by the Dagbon Traditional Council, dated 23rd August,2024, and addressed to the Chairman of the Yendi Municipal Security Council, the King of the Dagbon Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II, directed the announcement of a ban on the establishment of the Kulkpeniduli Market and any other place within the Mon Traditional area until further notice.

    It also disclosed that the establishment of the Kulkpeniduli market was being pursued without the knowledge of the traditional authorities of both Mion and Gbewaa Palace.

    ‘Justification’ for Kulkpiniduli Market Establishment

    The establishment of the Kulkpiniduli market the notice disclosed, was based on fears that Konkombas would be attacked by Dagombas, at the Sambu market, at Mion.

    Independent investigations it added, conducted by the Dagbon Traditional Council(DTC)  however, established for a fact that, Konkomba traders who patronized the Sambu market on Friday,23rd August,2024  did so without any confrontation with any one or group of persons.

    His Royal Majesty, also further directed that; security be provided on Sambu market days for all traders irrespective of their ethnic identity.

  • Treat Zogbie’s Incident as Localized and Isolated

    Treat Zogbie’s Incident as Localized and Isolated

    Story: Abddul Razak Mohammed

    His Royal Highness, Ubor Bowan John Mateer Sakojim IV, The Paramount Chief for Saboba Traditional Area, has called  for peace to prevail in Zogbie, Mion District, Northern Region of Ghana following the resent reported eruption of violence in the said community.

    He has also called on all Dagombas and Konkonbas to at this difficult times, treat the  most unfortunate  incident as localized and isolated and  never  as  war between the two ethnic groups.

    “It is with deep regret that I, Ubor Bowan John Mateer Sakojim IV, Paramount Chief of the Saboba Traditional Area, address the recent clashes between Dagombas and Konkombas in the farming community of Zogbie, in the Mion District of the Northern Region of Ghana.

    “These clashes, which took place on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, over a parcel of land, have unfortunately led to the loss of precious human lives.

    “It is crucial that the youth refrain from making inflammatory comments that have the potential to escalate the situation. Furthermore, I urge everyone to refrain from posting falsehoods and unverified information on social media, as these actions can only serve to worsen the conflict.

    ‘Adherence to the rule of law is essential during these trying times. The Northern Region requires a peaceful and stable environment to foster development. I implore the security services detailed to restore peace to act with firmness and fairness towards all individuals involved.

    “A thorough investigation must be conducted to bring the perpetrators of these acts to justice. I also call upon the chiefs and opinion leaders within the affected areas to take active steps to initiate dialogue between the feuding factions.

    “Open communication and understanding are key to achieving lasting peace in our communities. Dagombas and Konkombas must not view each other as enemies. Instead, we must unite to combat our common adversaries: poverty and underdevelopment. By working together, we can build a better future for our people”

    These were contained in a Press Release issued at the Palace of the Paramount Chief in Saboba,Thursday.

    In its 0fficial  statement issued and signed by its Director of Communications earlier in Tamale, Wednesday, the Dagbon Youth Association (DAYA) on its part had also observed with sadness, a rising tension in the Mion Traditional Area.

    “We understand the tensions are due to a land dispute between Konkombas and Mion Palace. This has fast become a Konkomba-Dagomba issue according to social media commentators.

    “Unconfirmed report, the statement noted, has it that this has resulted in loss of lives and injuries from both Konkombas and Dagombas. There has however been a deployment of heavy security from REGSEC to contain the situation.

    “DAYA wishes to urge everyone living around the area as well as travelers along Sang-Yendi stretch of the Tamale-Yendi Road to be circumspect but remain calm and cooperate with the security personnel.

    “We also wish to caution social media commentators to avoid discussing the issue and calling for social media war between Dagombas and Konkombas” the statement added.

     

     

     

  • Addressing Ethnic Laced hateful messages in Social Media Sites

    Addressing Ethnic Laced hateful messages in Social Media Sites

    Mohammed A. Abu

    The Northern Regional Secretariat of the National Peace Council of Ghana, the Northern Regional Peace Council(NRPC), has called upon the national security apparatus to arrest and prosecute faceless individuals engaged in hateful audio-visual messages amid press releases circulating in social media platforms pitching ethnic groups against each other.

    This is in view of the fact that, such acts seek to undermine the peace and security of the region through false publications.

    The Council while condemning the press releases and all ethnocentric text, audio and video materials circulating in social media sites, has also urged the general public not only to disregard those hateful publications but continue to live harmoniously with one another without regard to ethnic, religious, political and any form of social difference.

    The Council has therefore entreated the public to stay away from ethnocentric behaviours, machinations, and all tendencies that seek to divide or sow seeds of discord within the fibers of multicultural societies in Northern Region.

    Individuals and groups are requested to avoid sharing and giving free publicity to hateful and ethnocentric speeches/statements.

    These were contained in an official statement signed on behalf of the NRPC’s Chairman,the Most,Reverend Bishop Mathew Yetiereh, issued in Tamale, Friday.

    The Council further entreated all youth associations to use dialogue rather than press conferences/releases which only escalate social problems in intergroup relations situations.

    “Peaceful coexistence among all ethnic, religious and political party groups should be the prime focus of all peace-loving Ghanaians.

    “The Council entreats groups and individuals to be vanguards of peace and development rather than interfering in matters of traditional governance. youth groups should allow state and non-state institutions to address social tensions emanating from traditional governance systems rather than interfering and undermining established authorities.

    “Issues of educational performances, poor health services and sanitation, substance abuse, agricultural growth, youth unemployment, and improvement in the living conditions of the good people of Northam Region should be your utmost priority” the statement further added.