The government has inaugurated a seven-member mediation committee tasked with resolving the Gbenyiri land conflict in the Savannah Region within one month.
The committee, inaugurated by Interior Minister Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka in Accra, was formed on the directive of the National Security Council as part of efforts to restore peace, security, and social cohesion in the area.
The Gbenyiri conflict erupted on August 23, 2025, in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District and quickly spread to nearby communities. The clashes have claimed several lives, destroyed property, and displaced more than 50,000 residents.
Outlining the committee’s mandate, the Interior Minister said its responsibilities include facilitating the safe return of displaced residents, assessing the extent of the conflict and resulting losses, promoting reconciliation and dialogue, and recommending long-term peace-building measures. The committee will also work to restore livelihoods and strengthen local institutions.
“The Government of His Excellency John German Mahama expects that you will conduct your duties with impartiality, transparency, and inclusiveness, engaging with all stakeholders, traditional authorities, opinion leaders, civil society, and security agencies so that peace and trust can be rebuilt,” Mr. Muntaka said.
He pledged full logistical and secretariat support from the Ministry and encouraged the committee to collaborate with civil society organizations, development partners, and faith-based institutions. He described the assignment as “heavy but honorable,” noting that the people of Gbenyiri and its environs were looking up to the team as “instruments of peace, reconciliation, and healing.”
The mediation committee, chaired by conflict resolution expert Emmanuel Habuka Bombande, also includes:
• Alhaji Collins Dauda, MP and Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Lands and Natural Resources
• Rev. Father Lazarus Annyere, Chair of the Savannah Regional Peace Council
• Dr. Festus Aubyn, West Africa Network for Peace-building
• Sylvia Hormane Noagbesenu, Esq., Ag. Director of Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute, KAIPTC
• Prof. Ramatu Alhassan
• Dr. George Amoh, Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council (Secretary to the committee)
The committee is expected to present its recommendations within one month to help restore long-term peace and stability in the Savannah Region.
