Theatre for Peace project launched in Accra to promote peaceful elections

In a collaborative effort to foster peace across the nation during and after the upcoming general elections, the National Commission on Culture (NCC) and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) have officially launched the "Theatre for Peace" project.

This unique peace-building initiative, centered around theatrical performance, was unveiled today in a ceremony held in Accra, attended by a diverse gathering of stakeholders and supporters. 

The project, grounded in the transformative power of theatre, aims to address potential conflicts and promote unity among Ghanaians during the election season. 

By leveraging drama, storytelling, live art installations and musical performances, the NCC and NCCE hope to communicate the importance of peaceful civic participation and conflict resolution in a way that resonates with audience across all demographics. 

 The initiative will be replicated across Ghana's regions, bringing locally relevant messages of peace to communities nationwide. 

At the launch, attendees included representatives from the Centre for National Culture, students, members of the public, and delegates from various religious and security groups, such as a representative of the National Chief Imam. 

 The event featured 
 artistic displays, with live art installations symbolizing unity, while dramatic performances and traditional storytelling emphasized the shared cultural and historical values that underpin peace in Ghana. 

In his keynote address, the Executive Director of the NCC, Nana Otuo Owuahene, underscored the crucial role of peace in Ghana's democratic stability. Highlighting the potential of theatre as a powerful tool for communication, Owuahene remarked, "Theatre has an extraordinary capacity to engage minds and touch hearts. By using these elements, we can inspire our communities to prioritize peace in a way that lasts beyond the elections." 

He further called on all citizens to take part in this initiative by actively supporting and promoting peaceful dialogue. "Ensuring a violence-free election is not solely the responsibility of the government or institutions," he stated. "It requires each of us to participate and encourage a culture of mutual respect, tolerance, and understanding." 

The "Theatre for Peace" project will organise performances at the regional level, where actors will depict scenarios that highlight the consequences of violence and the benefits of peaceful engagement. Through these enactments, the NCC and NCCE hope to make a lasting impact, especially on younger generations, who may be voting for the first time.