Cultural dynamics and conflict management: Evidence from Buipe and Bole chieftaincy conflicts in the Savannah Region, Ghana

Abstract

Chieftaincy violence and tensions have persisted in most of the Savannah Region's traditional areas, and attempts to resolve them through the formal court system have failed since the parties reject most court decisions. Consequently, this study examined cultural dynamics in conflict management. A multiple case study design was used while data were gathered using interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic and cross‐case analyses were used to analyze the data. The study found that structural causes of the conflicts are interwoven with cultural breakdowns. The cognizance of culture into the management process by the traditional committees formed resulted in acceptable outcomes, as the processes proved to be meaningful to all stakeholders because it better met local needs. It is proposed that stakeholders in conflict management and peacebuilding should encourage, develop, and expedite local conflict management processes, with culture as an essential factor to consider in the process.