By: Baba Mohammed Issahaq Baba
The clashes in Gbenyiri have left thousands of families broken and searching for safety. At least 30 lives have been lost, and more than 48,000 people have been forced from their homes in the Savannah Region.
The clashes have affected communities in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba and Bole districts, forcing thousands of families, including women and children, to seek shelter in schools, churches, and makeshift camps. Many displaced say they are surviving on just one meal a day.
Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Be-Awuribe, confirmed the figures in an interview with Starr Today. He said the situation is more severe than earlier reported, disclosing that three more people are feared to have drowned in the Black Volta. This could raise the death toll to 33. Two others remain in critical condition in the hospital.
The Minister also revealed that over 14,000 residents have crossed into neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire to seek refuge.
President John Mahama has, in response, dispatched the Interior Minister, Alhaji Muntaka Mubarak, and other government officials to the area to engage with traditional leaders and the Overlord of Gonja land, in a bid to restore peace. Properties worth millions of cedis have been destroyed in the clashes.
Mr. Be-Awuribe assured residents that relief items are being distributed to those affected. He said more than 500 bags of rice, cooking oil, and other essentials have already been delivered through NADMO to the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District.
Authorities say their immediate priority is to provide food, shelter, and medical care to the displaced, while efforts continue to bring lasting peace to the area.
