Ghana’s Interior Minister, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, says more than 13,000 Ghanaians have crossed the border into Côte d’Ivoire following deadly clashes over a land dispute in the community of Gbinyiri.

Speaking on Thursday, Mr Muntaka confirmed that 13,253 people have sought refuge in neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire, according to official figures from Ivorian authorities.

The violence has displaced residents across four regions in northern Ghana, with many still stranded in parts of the Upper West and Savannah Regions, while others fled through riverine border communities.

“We have displaced persons across about four regions… some substantial number also crossed the river. If you know the terrain very well, it has a border community with Côte d’Ivoire,” Mr Muntaka said in an interview with Accra-based Joy FM.

He said the government is working closely with local authorities, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), and Côte d’Ivoire to deliver humanitarian support to those affected.

“We are supporting them the best we can. I want to thank the government of Côte d’Ivoire and the UNHCR for their cooperation and support,” he added.

Mr Muntaka also commended Ghana’s security services, whom he said have been “overworked” but continue to do their best under intense pressure.

Efforts to restore calm

The minister revealed that the government is collaborating with traditional leaders and the National Peace Council to calm tensions and prevent further escalation.

“This morning, a delegation from the Gonjaland leadership and the Peace Council is meeting with the Yagbonwura [the King of Gonjaland]. Hopefully by tomorrow or Monday, we’ll set up a committee to investigate and find long-term solutions,” he said.

Mr Muntaka added that displaced families may be allowed to return home soon, depending on the outcome of peace talks.

“Many of them left their farms and livestock behind. If we don’t resolve this quickly, we risk severe food insecurity in the region,” he warned.

Background to the conflict

Gbinyiri, a farming community in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of Ghana’s Savannah Region, has been the scene of violent clashes in recent weeks.

The conflict erupted after the local chief sold a parcel of land to a private developer — a move opposed by some residents. Tensions escalated when the developer attempted to begin work and was met with resistance from the community.

On Tuesday, 26 August, the Chief’s Palace was set ablaze following earlier confrontations that left six people dead and 18 others injured.

Authorities say they are determined to prevent a repeat of the violence and are urging all sides to cooperate with peace efforts.

Source:TheDotNews