By Samali Abdul Razak
THE ONGOING conflict in Nkwanta South has badly affected businesses and daily life in the area.
For the past four years, traders and business owners have struggled to survive as insecurity continues. Many shops have closed, while others are barely making enough to stay open.
In an interview with our reporter, Samali Abdul Razak, Daniel Atta Afenyo, the Nkwanta Branch Manager of National Investment Bank (NIB), explained how the conflict has reduced banking activities. He said many customers have moved away from the area, leading to a sharp drop in business.
Other banks, including Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB), are facing similar challenges. The slowdown in economic activity has affected not only businesses but also the daily lives of residents.
Gladys Mawuena Sorkpah, a mental health officer at the Nkwanta Municipal Hospital, said the conflict has brought serious economic hardship. Prices of essential goods in the township have increased, making it difficult for families to afford basic needs.
Students are also finding it hard to buy provisions for school because of the unstable situation. The municipality has also been unable to benefit from the 24-hour economy initiative being promoted by President John Dramani Mahama. Due to the curfew imposed because of the conflict, businesses cannot operate for long hours, and the area is missing out on opportunities for growth.
The violence has especially affected vulnerable groups. People living with disabilities say they face great difficulty when trying to escape during attacks. They are calling on government authorities and traditional leaders to act quickly to restore peace.
In addition, many development projects in Nkwanta South have been put on hold. Residents say resources are being redirected to other areas, leaving the municipality feeling neglected. Community members believe the conflict has created widespread economic hardship.
They say peace is the only way to rebuild businesses and improve living conditions. Residents are urging authorities to take firm action to end the conflict so that Nkwanta South can grow and thrive once again.
Source: Nationaltymes
