UPSA-OCTL calls on Nananom to embrace ADR to promote social cohesion

The Otumfuo Centre for Traditional Leadership (OCTL) at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has urged traditional leaders to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to foster social harmony and prevent the need for court intervention. Dr. Joseph Gerald Tetteh Nyanyofio, Director of OCTL, made the appeal during a five-day ADR training program for chiefs, queenmothers, family heads, and traditional council staff.

ADR, as an important tool for peace-building, should be utilized where possible to settle disputes, such as marital conflicts, land matters, and chieftaincy issues, through out-of-court settlements, the Director emphasized. The OCTL has been actively involved in training traditional leaders and council staff on ADR techniques over the years.

Dr. Nyanyofio expressed satisfaction with the inaugural ADR training program, which included 60 participants from all 16 regions of Ghana. Partnering organizations included the Office of the Administrator of Stool Lands and Awoonor Law Consultancy.

Mama Dzidoasi I, a lawyer, arbitrator, and Sub-Divisional Queen of the Gbi Traditional Area, highlighted the limitations of ADR, stating that criminal cases like rape and murder, constitutional interpretation, and certain public policy matters are not suitable for this process. However, she emphasized that ADR focuses on finding mutually acceptable solutions, promoting win-win outcomes, and preserving relationships.

The process is also more cost-effective and quicker than traditional court proceedings, which can often drag on for years.

Mama Dzidoasi I urged Ghanaians to explore ADR as an alternative to litigation for many disputes, noting its long-standing existence and various forms, including customary arbitration, mediation, and negotiation.