President John Mahama has pleaded with displaced citizens of the Gbinyiri community to return home after a successful peace and reconciliation effort.
The President’s message delivered through the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, indicated that 5,309 Ghanaians remain in Côte d’Ivoire following the Gbinyiri conflict that displaced 13,253 residents. This shows about 8000 residents have returned.
The conflict erupted over a land dispute in the Gbinyiri area forced thousands to flee across the border, with most settling in makeshift conditions in northern Côte d’Ivoire.
“While on his official visit, I delivered a special message from President Mahama a message of peace and forgiveness, and a message appealing to all our compatriots to return home since the government has beefed up security and ensured that normalcy is restored,” Hon Ablakwa noted during his session at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, September 15.
To support immediate humanitarian needs and encourage voluntary return, the Foreign Affairs Minister, on behalf of President Mahama, donated CFA 6 million to assist with logistics and urgent necessities.
“On behalf of President Mahama, I donated CFA 6 million to cover urgent humanitarian needs and to facilitate logistical requirements for their safe return home. This donation is distinct from other relief items including food, water, blankets and medicines already provided through NADMO,” he said.
The Gbinyiri conflict left people dead and displaced thousands, mainly women and children. Government efforts, including peacebuilding, mediation, and security reinforcement, continue to encourage the return of affected citizens.
