Ghana’s parliamentary Minority bloc has donated CFA 2 million (approximately $3,200) to support Ghanaian nationals displaced by a violent conflict in the country’s Savannah Region.
The funds were delivered Thursday to refugees in Vonkoro, a remote settlement in the northeastern Bouna Region of Côte d’Ivoire, where an estimated 13,000 Ghanaians have sought refuge following a week-long clash that left more than 40 dead and displaced over 40,000.
While over 8,000 of the displaced have since returned to Ghana, thousands remain scattered across border towns in northern Côte d’Ivoire, many facing severe shortages of food, shelter, and medical aid.
Speaking during the visit, delegation leader Nana Asafo-Adjei-Ayeh, representing Ghana’s parliamentary Minority, said the donation was both humanitarian and symbolic.
“We are here not only on behalf of the Minority but for Ghanaians as a whole, to stand in solidarity with you during this difficult period,” he said. “This CFA 2 million is a small gesture to help relieve the hardship you are currently facing. Our ultimate hope is for a durable resolution that will allow your safe return.”
The conflict in Ghana’s Savannah Region has sparked mounting concern over the government's response and capacity to manage internal displacement. Local observers suggest the violence stems from deepening ethnic and land-related tensions, though the precise trigger remains under investigation.
Receiving the cash donation, Kawuro Kwasi David, a local assemblyman from Bole and de facto leader of the Ghanaian refugees in Vonkoro, expressed gratitude.
“Your presence and support bring us a sense of hope,” he told the MPs. “This contribution will help ease the burden on families and ensure our stay here is somewhat manageable.”
The visit from members of Ghana’s parliamentary opposition appeared to boost morale among the refugees, many of whom called for sustained political pressure to expedite their return.
“We are encouraged that the Minority is standing with us,” said one refugee. “We believe that if they continue pressing the government, solutions will come sooner.”
While the Ghanaian government has yet to release a comprehensive plan for resettlement or conflict resolution, the Minority’s intervention signals growing political engagement in what is fast becoming a regional humanitarian issue.
