The government has assured displaced residents of Gbinyiri in the Savannah Region of its commitment to restoring peace and stability following last month’s violent clashes that forced more than 13,000 people to flee to neighbouring Ivory Coast.
Savannah Regional Minister, Mr. Salisu Be-Awuribe, led a delegation to the Bourkani Region of Ivory Coast, where the asylum seekers are being hosted, to express solidarity and reassure them of efforts to resolve the conflict at home. He said government was working closely with traditional leaders, security agencies, and international partners to bring lasting peace to Gbinyiri and its surrounding communities.
The August 23 conflict claimed about 30 lives and triggered a mass exodus of residents across the border, creating a humanitarian crisis in Ivory Coast. The minister acknowledged the trauma suffered by the affected families and urged them to remain hopeful as peacebuilding interventions take shape.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has been coordinating relief support for the displaced persons with the help of partners. Savannah Regional NADMO Director, Mr. Mahama Zakaria, praised Ivorian authorities for their cooperation and appealed for further support to meet the overwhelming needs of the refugees.
The government has pledged to intensify dialogue in Gbinyiri to prevent a recurrence and facilitate the safe return of displaced citizens once peace is restored.
