KEY POINTS
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Gbinyiri clash has displaced over 13,000 Ghanaians into Côte d’Ivoire.
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Government and international partners are assisting displaced persons.
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Authorities plan safe return to prevent food insecurity in the region.
Tens of thousands of Ghanaians have fled across the border into Côte d’Ivoire following the recent Gbinyiri land dispute, Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka said Thursday, highlighting the growing humanitarian impact of the conflict.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Muntaka cited the latest figures from Ivorian authorities, revealing that 13,253 Ghanaians have sought refuge in the neighboring country.
“The violence has displaced people across four regions,” Muntaka said, noting that while some remain internally displaced in Upper West and Savannah, others crossed the border seeking safety. “If you know the terrain very well, it has a border community with Côte d’Ivoire,” he added, underlining the fluidity of the crisis.
Gbinyiri clash displaces thousands across borders
The minister emphasized that Ghanaian authorities, local assemblies, and international partners are mobilizing support for those affected. “We are supporting them the best that we can,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Ivorian government for its cooperation and to the UN Refugee Agency for logistical assistance. Muntaka also praised Ghana’s security services for their dedication.
“My special thanks goes to them because they have been oversweat. We know they are doing the best that they can to keep our country safe,” he said.
Traditional leaders and the Peace Council have been engaged to restore calm, with a delegation meeting the Yagbonwura to address lingering tensions. “We are optimistic about the way we are working,” Muntaka said, adding that a committee will soon be established to investigate the dispute and recommend measures to prevent recurrence.
Government plans safe return of displaced persons
According to MyJoyOnline, authorities are considering allowing displaced families to return home once conditions are deemed secure. “Many left their animals and farms unattended. If we don’t resolve this quickly, it will lead to a lot of food insecurity in that area,” Muntaka warned.
He stressed that the government is working “tirelessly with all the traditional authorities to ensure that normalcy is returned” and to protect livelihoods during the ongoing farming season.
