President of the Ghana National Association of ADR Practitioners (GNAAP), Mr. Daniel Owusu-Koranteng, has made a passionate case for stronger national commitment to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a tool for improving justice delivery and social cohesion in Ghana.
Speaking at the 12th Annual General Conference of GNAAP in Accra under the theme “Resolving Conflicts in a Changing World: The Option of Alternative Dispute Resolution,” Mr. Owusu-Koranteng highlighted how Ghana’s formal justice system is overwhelmed by a growing tide of economic, social, political, and land-related conflicts, worsened by mining disputes and family breakdowns.
He warned that this overload has led to a disturbing trend where citizens resort to unlawful means, including instant justice, revenge, and gangsterism, especially in land protection. “These are clear signs that our justice system is under strain and failing to meet the public’s demand for timely dispute resolution,” he stated.
The GNAAP President emphasized that ADR presents an effective alternative, capable of easing the burden on courts, speeding up case resolution, and providing more affordable and accessible justice for all. He however lamented the limited investment in ADR infrastructure and personnel. “While ADR contributes significantly to decongesting the courts, the government’s support has not matched its growing importance in our legal system,” he said.
Mr. Owusu-Koranteng called for increased funding for ADR offices, training, and remuneration for practitioners. He also urged members of GNAAP to uphold high ethical standards, cultural sensitivity, and professionalism, which are essential for earning public trust and ensuring the long-term sustainability of ADR in Ghana.
He concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between GNAAP, the Judicial Service, and relevant government agencies to mainstream ADR and equip practitioners to turn “swords into ploughshares”, promoting peace, justice, and national stability in a changing world.
