Develop a concept proposal on the topic 500 youth walk and cry for a peaceful election in the Wa, upper west region of Ghana by December 2024

### Concept Proposal: "500 Youth Walk for Peaceful Elections in Wa, Upper West Region of Ghana" #### Introduction The upcoming elections in December 2024 are critical for the democracy and social cohesion of Ghana. In light of potential electoral tensions and conflicts, there is a pressing need to foster a culture of peace and dialogue among the youth. This proposal outlines a plan for a peaceful, impactful event titled "500 Youth Walk and Cry for Peaceful Elections" in Wa, Upper West Region of Ghana. #### Objectives 1. **Promote Peaceful Participation**: Encourage active and peaceful participation of youth in the electoral process. 2. **Raise Awareness**: Amplify awareness about the importance of peace during elections and the negative impact of electoral violence. 3. **Foster Unity**: Unite diverse youth groups to promote understanding, tolerance, and collaboration among different political affiliations. 4. **Engagement with Stakeholders**: Engage local leaders, political parties, and civil society organizations to support the peace initiative. #### Event Overview - **Event Title**: 500 Youth Walk and Cry for Peaceful Elections - **Date**: A suitable date in November 2024, leading up to the elections in December. - **Location**: Starting point at the Wa Central Market and culminating at the Wa Sports Stadium, Wa, Upper West Region. #### Target Audience - Youth aged 18-35 from diverse political and social backgrounds. - Local community members, including families and leaders. - Media houses for coverage and amplification. #### Activities Plan 1. **Walk for Peace**: A peaceful walk with participants carrying banners and placards with messages advocating for peaceful elections and coexistence. 2. **Cries for Peace**: A segment during the walk where participants will collectively chant or cry for peace, symbolizing their commitment to a violence-free electoral process. 3. **Speeches and Performances**: Local leaders, youth representatives, and artists will deliver speeches and performances conveying messages of peace and unity. 4. **Interactive Workshops**: Post-walk workshops focusing on conflict resolution, civic education, and the role of youth in sustaining democracy. 5. **Media Engagement**: Invite local journalists and media outlets to cover the event, ensuring widespread dissemination of the event's messages. #### Partnerships and Collaborations - **Local Government**: Collaborate with the Wa Municipal Assembly and local Ghana Police to ensure necessary permits and security. - **Civil Society Organizations**: Partner with organizations focused on peacebuilding, youth engagement, and electoral processes, such as the National Youth Authority and local NGOs. - **Schools and Universities**: Engage educational institutions to mobilize students and encourage their participation. #### Budget Overview - **Transportation and Logistics**: GHS 5,000 - **Materials (banners, placards)**: GHS 1,500 - **Sound System and Venue Setup**: GHS 2,500 - **Promotional Materials**: GHS 1,000 - **Refreshments for Participants**: GHS 1,000 - **Miscellaneous Expenses**: GHS 1,000 - **Total Estimated Budget**: GHS 12,000 #### Conclusion The "500 Youth Walk and Cry for Peaceful Elections" initiative represents an opportunity to galvanize the youth of Wa towards a common purpose: ensuring that their voices are heard and that the upcoming elections are conducted in a peaceful and fair manner. By promoting peace, unity, and civic engagement, we can reinforce the democratic values that are integral to Ghana’s future. Through collaboration with local entities and the active participation of the youth, this event can significantly contribute to a conducive electoral atmosphere in December 2024. #### Call to Action We invite stakeholders, sponsors, and partners to support this initiative and join us in making a significant contribution to the future of our nation. Together, we can walk for peace! Update (2024-08-20): ### Concept Proposal: “500 Youth Walk and Cry for a Peaceful Election in Wa, Upper West Region of Ghana” #### Project Title “Walk for Peace: 500 Youth Rally for a Peaceful Election in Wa” #### The Problem Ghana is celebrated for its democratic values and peaceful electoral processes in a region often fraught with violence and instability. However, the upcoming general elections in December 2024 pose a significant challenge as political tensions mount, especially among the youth. Historical data indicates that youth engagement in political processes can either escalate tensions or foster peace. According to the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), youth are critical agents of change and have the potential to influence electoral outcomes positively (NCCE, 2019). #### Objectives 1. To mobilize at least 500 youth in Wa to advocate for peaceful electoral processes through a symbolic walk. 2. To raise awareness about the importance of peaceful elections, highlighting the risks of electoral violence. 3. To foster dialogue and understanding among youth from different political backgrounds to mitigate conflicts. 4. To encourage civic education on rights and responsibilities during electoral periods. #### Proposed Activities 1. **Youth Mobilization**: Engage local youth organizations, schools, and communities to recruit participants for the walk. 2. **Awareness Campaign**: Use social media platforms and local media to promote the event and the importance of maintaining peace during elections. 3. **Organizing the Walk**: Plan a peaceful march through Wa, where participants will wear customized t-shirts and hold banners advocating for peace, moderation, and unity. 4. **Post-Walk Engagement**: Host a community dialogue session post-event where participants can discuss the importance of peaceful elections in community settings. #### Expected Outcomes - At least 500 youth actively participate in the walk. - Increased awareness among the youth about the importance of peaceful elections. - Positive media coverage promoting peace and unity. - A strengthened sense of community and collaboration among youth from diverse political backgrounds. #### Timeline - **September 2024**: Initial planning and stakeholder engagement. - **October 2024**: Finalize logistics, marketing, and participant mobilization. - **November 2024**: Conduct awareness campaigns and community outreach. - **December 2024**: Execute the walk and host the community dialogue session. #### Budget Estimate - **Logistics (transport, sound systems, banners)**: $1,500 - **Marketing Materials (posters, social media ads)**: $500 - **Refreshments for participants**: $400 - **Facilitator fees for dialogue session**: $300 - **Contingency Fund**: $300 **Total Estimated Budget**: $3,000 #### Partnership Opportunities - **Local NGOs**: Collaborate with organizations focused on peace-building and civic education. - **Educational Institutions**: Partner with schools and universities to involve student bodies. - **Media Outlets**: Work with local radio and TV stations for promotional support before and after the event. #### References 1. National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE). (2019). "Youth Participation in Elections in Ghana." Retrieved from [NCCE Official Website](https://www.nccegh.org). 2. Ghana Statistical Service. (2021). “Population and Housing Census: Youth in the Upper West Region.” Retrieved from [GSS Official Website](https://www.statsghana.gov.gh). This proposal reflects a commitment by the youth of Wa to embrace their role in shaping peaceful democratic processes and ensuring integrity in future elections. Through collective action and dialogue, this initiative can serve as a model for fostering peace in the region.