Government efforts to restore calm in Gbiniyiri appear to be yielding results, with Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak announcing that more than 65 percent of residents who fled the area during recent clashes have returned.
The violence, triggered by a land dispute on August 24, over 30 people dead, many injured, and forced thousands to seek refuge, particularly across the border in Côte d’Ivoire. Entire households were uprooted as homes and properties were destroyed.
At a press briefing in Accra, Mr. Muntaka said security operations and mediation initiatives are helping rebuild trust among residents.
“I can tell you today that more than 65% of the people have returned home. Our biggest concern, however, remains those still outside the borders. Many are already coming back, but we want to facilitate the process to make it even faster,” he stated.
To consolidate the gains, government has inaugurated a seven-member mediation committee led by conflict resolution expert Emmanuel Bombande.
The committee has been tasked with reconciling factions, assessing the damage, and recommending long-term peacebuilding measures. It is expected to present its report within one month.
Civil society groups have welcomed the progress but stress the need for urgent support for families still displaced, as well as sustainable peace mechanisms to prevent a recurrence.
President John Dramani Mahama has pledged full government backing for the committee’s work, assuring that resources will be provided to secure Gbiniyiri and surrounding communities.
