Authorities in River Gee County have convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting.
The meeting aimed to address rising land disputes, and accelerate tribal land documentation.
The tensions erupted over land ownership, which continue to threaten peace in the county.
The meeting, led by Senator Francis S. Dopoh, and Superintendent Mike T. Swengbe, brought together district commissioners, paramount and clan chiefs, traditional leaders, youth groups and civil society representatives in Fish Town. The goal was to map peaceful and lawful pathways to resolve land conflicts and formalize customary land rights. Supt. Swengbe warning against actions that could derail the peace process. “Any individual found instigating conflict or taking the law into their own hands will face legal action.” Swengbe urged residents to embrace unity, discipline and cooperation. He said, land disputes, if unchecked, could undermine development and stability. Sen. Dopoh reaffirmed his support for transparent and inclusive land governance under the 2018 Land Rights Act. Dooh called on all stakeholders to remain engaged in constructive dialogue, and pledged to work with national agencies to fast-track tribal land deeds. “Lasting peace in River Gee depends on people knowing their boundaries and having documents to prove it.” The meeting ended with a joint resolution to strengthen collaboration between local authorities and communities. Key commitments include setting up district-level land committees, documenting tribal lands, and using alternative dispute resolution to settle conflicts before they escalate to violence. Meanwhile, some residents linked to the surge in land disputes blame the growing presence of Burkinabè nationals in cocoa farming across the county. Community members claim farmland sales and informal leases to foreign farmers have sparked boundary disagreements among families and clans. Local leaders say, the issue will be part of follow-up discussions to ensure land transactions comply with the law. The push comes as River Gee and other counties face pressure to implement the Land Rights Act, which recognizes customary land ownership, but requires formal surveying and deed registration.
Officials say, proper documentation is critical to prevent conflict, attract investment, and protect community rights.