A worsening humanitarian crisis is unfolding in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba and Bole districts of Ghana’s Savannah Region, as makeshift camps struggle to shelter thousands displaced by the Gbenyiri conflict. Many of the affected are surviving on just one meal a day.
Latest figures show that thousands of people, including women and children, have sought refuge in camps across the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba and Bole Bamboi municipal areas. Over 14,000 residents have crossed into Vonkore in neighbouring Ivory Coast, while 30 people have lost their lives since the unrest began.
Speaking to Tutuwaa Danso on Starr Today, Savannah Regional Minister Salisu Be-Awuribe disclosed that over 48,000 residents have been displaced following clashes at Gbenyiri in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District.
Last weekend, President John Mahama delegated the Interior Minister, Alhaji Muntaka Mubarak, and other officials to the area to engage with the overlord of the Gonja land and work towards restoring lasting peace. Properties worth millions of cedis have been destroyed.
Mr. Be-Awuribe told Starr News that food remains available to residents despite rumours to the contrary.
“The situation on the ground is worse than initially reported. The confirmed death toll has risen to 30, with three more people feared drowned in the Black Volta whose bodies are yet to be recovered; bringing the total to about 33. Two others remain in critical condition in hospital and are battling for their lives.
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“According to NADMO, over 48,000 people have been displaced within Ghana. In neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire, authorities have also recorded more than 13,000 people displaced from affected communities.
“I can say the process is improving,” he noted, explaining that more than 500 bags of rice were delivered to the NADMO regional office and immediately dispatched to the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District. He added that the region currently has a significant stock of relief supplies, including cooking oil and other consumable and non-consumable items.”
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Benjamin Sackey
