Gbiniyiri Land Conflict Escalates: Death Toll Rises to 31, 48,000 Displaced
Ghana , Savannah Region - The Gbiniyiri land conflict has taken a devastating turn, with the death toll soaring to 31 and approximately 48,000 residents displaced from their homes. The violence, which erupted on August 24, 2025, has spread to nearly 12 communities in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District, forcing thousands to flee in search of safety.
The displaced persons, mostly women and children, have been seeking refuge in temporary shelters at Sawla, where the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and the Ghana Red Cross are providing emergency support. Conditions in the camps are dire, with reports of overcrowding, food shortages, and limited access to clean water and medical care. About 14,000 of the displaced have crossed into neighboring Burkina Faso and Côte d'Ivoire, seeking refuge from the violence.
The stories of the displaced persons paint a grim picture of life in the camps. Alhassan Osman, a victim, recounted, "We left everything behind when the fighting started. Now we have nothing to feed our children." Another victim, Agness Dawuda, appealed for urgent assistance, stating, "People ran in every direction. Some didn’t make it. I haven’t seen my brother since." The victims are struggling to survive, with many relying on a single meal a day, which is often insufficient.
The Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Bi-Awuribe, has assured that the situation is under control following the deployment of additional security personnel to the conflict zones. The Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has indicated it is working closely with the Yagbonwura and other traditional leaders to mediate the situation and find a lasting resolution. The government has called for calm and urged all parties to allow peace talks to proceed promising to investigate the conflict and work towards a permanent solution.
The ongoing peace talks aim to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent future clashes. However, residents allege that the actual death toll could be significantly higher than reported, with some claiming over 200 deaths since the conflict began.
NADMO and aid agencies are appealing for urgent support, including food, shelter materials, and medical supplies, to assist the growing number of displaced families. The humanitarian crisis in Gbiniyiri requires immediate attention and aid to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities.
Source – Graphic Online
