Promoting Environmental Stewardship and Dialogue
As part of its ongoing commitment to promote Laudato Si’—Pope Francis’ encyclical on caring for our common home—the Catholic Church, through its JPIC (Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation) ministry, organized an interactive session with Fulani communities in the Kwahu Afram Plains. The initiative was led by the Sister Servants of the Holy Spirit (SSpS), the Society of the Divine Word (SVD), and VIVAT-Ghana.
The Fulani, historically nomadic Northern African herders, have long faced social marginalization in Ghana. Despite many Fulani families having lived in Ghana for generations, they continue to face issues around citizenship, land access, and full societal inclusion. Tensions between herders and farmers remain persistent, often tied to resource use and land conflicts.
Community Voices and Official Responses
About 150 Fulani participants attended the session, which addressed environmental degradation, bushfires, deforestation, and grazing conflicts. Mr. Bannerman, a cattle ranch manager, introduced cattle ranching as a solution to reduce environmental damage and conflicts between farmers and herders.
Chief Sadique Iddrisa Sambo expressed gratitude and committed to encouraging ranch farming among his people. However, he also called on authorities, particularly the Ghana Police Service, to treat Fulani fairly. Many Fulani youth and elders echoed these concerns, emphasizing their identity as Ghanaians deserving equal rights.
Police Commander Superintendent David Azumah acknowledged the community’s frustrations but stressed the importance of lawfulness. District Chief Executive Hon. Evans Kyei Ntiri reaffirmed his support for Fulani farmers but urged them to abide by the law to foster peace.
Building a Path Forward
Very Rev. Fr. Bernard Appiah-Adjei, SVD, highlighted the need for respect, dignity, and environmental care across all communities. He emphasized that safeguarding the planet is a shared responsibility and urged all stakeholders to join the effort.
The event gathered religious, traditional, and civic leaders, emphasizing collaboration across faiths and communities. Closing the session, Rev. Bro. Charles Eshun, SVD, announced that JPIC/VIVAT-Ghana would continue efforts to support Fulani farmers and promote cattle ranching to ensure environmental sustainability in the Afram Plains.
Maria Vilma Espinosa, SSpS and Nicholas Aazine, SVD
JPIC/VIVAT Coordinators
Ghana SVD-SSpS Collaborative Ministry
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