Over 13,000 Ghanaians Flee to Côte d'Ivoire Amid Gbiniyiri Land Dispute
Gbiniyiri ,September 6,2025 - A dire humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Ghana's Savannah Region, where a land dispute in Gbiniyiri has forced over 13,253 Ghanaians to seek refuge in neighboring Côte d'Ivoire. The Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, confirmed the alarming figure in a radio interview with Joy FM monitored by Lead News Online.
The clashes, which began on Sunday, August 24, have claimed 31 lives and displaced thousands across 12 communities in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) estimates that more than 48,000 people, mainly women and children, have been affected. The Interior Minister warned that if the conflict persists, it could worsen food insecurity in the area, as many displaced persons have abandoned their farms and livelihoods.
The government has deployed over 700 security personnel to the conflict zone to maintain peace and order. Muntaka assured that calm has largely returned to the area and that authorities are working with traditional leaders and the National Peace Council to restore normalcy. A committee he mentioned will be set up to investigate the conflict and recommend measures to prevent its recurrence.
The government of Côte d'Ivoire and the UNHCR have pledged support to the affected individuals.
The Interior Minister emphasized government is optimistic that a resolution will be reached soon, allowing displaced families to return home. The situation remains volatile, but authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the displaced persons.
Source – Lead News Online/Jeff Ago
