The Director of the Otumfuo Centre for Traditional Leadership (OCTL) at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Dr Joseph Gerald Tetteh Nyanyofio, has issued a crucial call to traditional leaders throughout Ghana to actively embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a vital mechanism for fostering social cohesion and resolving disputes within their communities. This initiative underscores a growing recognition of ADR’s potential to mitigate conflict and strengthen societal bonds, particularly in the context of Ghana’s diverse traditional systems.
Dr. Nyanyofio emphasized the OCTL’s longstanding commitment to strengthening the capacity of traditional leadership and staff, highlighting ADR as a critical component of nation-building. He stated that the Centre has identified ADR as a particularly effective approach for addressing a range of issues, including marital conflicts, civil disputes, land matters, and chieftaincy-related challenges, which, without protracted court processes, could be resolved more efficiently and amicably. The OCTL’s efforts are geared toward facilitating a smoother and less adversarial approach to dispute resolution.
The recent five-day ADR training programme for chiefs, queenmothers, family heads, staff of traditional councils, and regional Houses of Chiefs at UPSA attracted approximately 60 participants from across the 16 regions of Ghana. This substantial participation demonstrates a widespread commitment to the principles of ADR within the traditional leadership sphere. The programme was meticulously organized in partnership with the Office of the Administrator of Stool Lands and Awoonor Law Consultancy, a significant collaboration aimed at supporting the continued development of traditional governance structures.
In response to the call, Lawyer, arbitrator, and facilitator Mama Dzidoasi I, a prominent figure within the Gbi Traditional Area, offered a perspective on the benefits of ADR. She explained that while ADR could resolve many disputes, certain matters, particularly those involving criminal cases, constitutional interpretation, and public policy considerations, were not subject to the ADR Act’s purview. She illustrated this point with examples like rape and murder, constitutional interpretation, and issues relating to public policy, emphasizing that ADR focuses on finding mutually acceptable solutions rather than determining who is ‘right’ or ‘wrong,’ thereby promoting win-win outcomes and preserving relationships.
Furthermore, Mama Dzidoasi I noted that ADR is generally less expensive and often resolves disputes more quickly than traditional court systems, which can linger for extended periods. She urged Ghanaians to not solely rely on traditional dispute resolution mechanisms but to actively explore and embrace ADR as a viable and increasingly important tool for conflict management. The OCTL’s initiative represents a strategic investment in a more collaborative and less adversarial approach to resolving disputes within traditional communities, aligning with a broader national effort to promote peace and stability.”
According to a recent report by the National Council for Community Development, the adoption of ADR has been steadily increasing across Ghana, with a significant increase in utilization of mediation and negotiation techniques, demonstrating a growing acceptance of alternative dispute resolution methods. The OCTL’s involvement reinforces this trend, signifying a proactive commitment to strengthening the resilience of traditional governance systems through the incorporation of modern dispute resolution strategies.
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Source: Adom Online
