Story By: Felix Ernest Odamtten / Muhammad Faisal Mustapha….
The global search for lasting peace and meaningful international cooperation received renewed momentum in Accra as spiritual leader and Founder of Asomdwee Ntontom Som, Nyame Somafo Yawoh, officially launched the World Unity and Peace International (WUPI) Summit 2026, an ambitious initiative designed to unite governments, faith leaders, diplomats, academics, businesses and civil society around a common vision of peace, justice and human solidarity.
Held under the theme, “Building Bridges for a More Peaceful World Through Unity, Dialogue and Partnership,” the launch positioned Ghana at the centre of an emerging global movement dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence through dialogue, intercultural understanding and collaborative action. Organisers say the summit will culminate in a major international gathering in September 2026, attracting delegates from across the world.
Delivering the keynote address, the General Secretary of World Unity and Peace International, Mr. Mark Asare, described the launch as far more than the inauguration of a conference, calling it the beginning of a worldwide commitment to restoring hope, strengthening international partnerships and advancing the shared values that bind humanity together.
He explained that Ghana was deliberately selected to host the initiative because of its long-standing reputation as one of Africa’s most peaceful democracies, noting that the country’s political stability, democratic credentials and culture of tolerance make it an ideal platform from which to champion global peace and constructive international dialogue.
Reflecting on today’s geopolitical landscape, Mr. Asare observed that despite remarkable technological and scientific achievements, millions of people continue to endure armed conflicts, forced displacement, poverty, inequality and humanitarian crises. He argued that these challenges require collective action rooted in justice, mutual respect and genuine international cooperation.
“Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is the presence of justice, compassion, mutual respect and our shared responsibility to protect the dignity of every human being,” Mr. Mark Asare declared.
He noted that the WUPI Summit has been designed as a global platform where political leaders, diplomats, traditional authorities, religious institutions, youth organisations, businesses and development partners can exchange ideas, build strategic alliances and formulate practical solutions to conflict prevention, sustainable development and social cohesion.
Calling on nations facing political instability and armed conflict to prioritise diplomacy over confrontation, Mr. Asare stressed that dialogue, respect for international law and inclusive negotiations remain the most sustainable pathways toward resolving disputes and rebuilding fractured societies.
“This summit exists to build bridges instead of barriers, encourage understanding instead of suspicion, and promote cooperation rather than division,” he emphasised.
According to the organisers, the long term vision extends beyond an annual conference. World Unity and Peace International seeks to evolve into a permanent global movement dedicated to promoting peace education, youth leadership development, humanitarian partnerships, intercultural exchanges and peaceful conflict resolution across continents.
A major highlight of the launch was an appeal to the media to embrace its responsibility as a guardian of peace. Addressing participants, the Editor of the Multi Media Group underscored the enormous influence journalists wield in shaping public opinion and national discourse, urging media practitioners to exercise that power responsibly.
Drawing lessons from the tragic 1994 Rwanda genocide, he warned that irresponsible journalism can inflame divisions and contribute to violence, while ethical, balanced and factual reporting has the capacity to preserve peace, strengthen democratic institutions and promote national unity.
“Journalists must never allow themselves to become instruments of conflict. Professional journalism should amplify voices of peace, encourage dialogue and unite societies rather than deepen divisions,” he urged.
Launching the initiative, Nyame Somafo Yawoh described the vision behind World Unity and Peace International as one born out of divine inspiration and grounded in a desire to restore unity, moral leadership and sustainable development across nations. He expressed concern over growing intolerance, declining respect for leadership and widening social divisions, warning that such trends threaten both the spiritual and socio economic advancement of societies.
He explained that the official launch represents only the first phase of a broader international campaign that will culminate in the September summit, where representatives from numerous countries will deliberate on innovative approaches to strengthening global peace, fostering unity and advancing sustainable development through collective action and enduring partnerships.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of the World Unity and Peace International Charter, symbolising the unwavering commitment of founding members and stakeholders to uphold the principles of peace, unity, dialogue and international collaboration. As participants appended their signatures to the charter, organisers expressed confidence that the initiative would grow into a transformative global platform capable of inspiring nations to replace conflict with cooperation and build a more peaceful future for generations to come.
