Nearly 750 Liberian refugees have departed Ghana for their home country, marking a significant step in a long-awaited repatriation process. The refugees, who had resided at the Buduburam camp in Ghana’s Central Region for over two decades, boarded buses accompanied by their belongings.
A Haven Turns Temporary
The Buduburam refugee camp was established by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in 1990 to provide shelter for Liberians fleeing the country’s brutal civil wars. The first Liberian civil war raged from 1989 to 1996, followed by a second conflict from 1999 to 2003. The camp, initially intended as a temporary haven, housed over 12,000 refugees at its peak, not only Liberians escaping the violence but also Sierra Leoneans fleeing their own civil war from 1991 to 2002.
Following the wars’ conclusion in the early 2000s, discussions regarding repatriation began between Ghana and Liberia. These discussions acknowledged the lengthy stay of the refugees and explored options for their return to Liberia.
Ghana and Liberia Collaborate on Repatriation
Ghanaian and Liberian officials reached an agreement in 2021 to facilitate the safe and organized return of Liberian refugees. The recent departure of 750 individuals marks the first phase of a repatriation program expected to see a total of 4,300 Liberians return home by June 2024.
At a ceremony preceding the departure, Liberian Deputy Minister of Legal Affairs Jeddi Armah emphasized that the repatriation signifies a new chapter for the refugees. “This return brings closure to their presence in Ghana,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Ghanaian government for its support over the years. Ghanaians provided these Liberians with sanctuary for over two decades, offering them a place to live, raise families, and rebuild their lives after the trauma of war.
Minister Armah assured the refugees that Liberia has made preparations to ensure their smooth reintegration back into society. He encouraged them to view this repatriation as an opportunity to contribute to rebuilding their home nation. Liberia has undoubtedly faced challenges since the wars, but the return of its citizens offers a chance to strengthen the country’s workforce and foster economic growth.
Challenges and Hope for the Future
The repatriation program is not without its challenges. Some refugees in Buduburam have expressed concerns about reintegrating into Liberian society after such a long absence. They may face difficulties finding employment or accessing housing and healthcare.
However, both Ghana and Liberia are committed to making the repatriation process successful. Ghana has pledged to continue supporting departing refugees with logistics and transportation. Liberia has established programs to assist returnees with finding housing, employment, and educational opportunities.
The departure of the first group of Liberian refugees from Buduburam marks a significant milestone. It offers hope for a future where these individuals can rebuild their lives in their home country. The success of the program will depend on continued collaboration between Ghana and Liberia, as well as the ability to address the concerns and needs of the returning refugees.
Source: Graphic Online
