Gov’t sets up mediation team to restore peace in Gbenyiri
The government has inaugurated a seven-member mediation committee with a one-month mandate to restore peace and stability in Gbenyiri and surrounding communities in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region, where violent land clashes have displaced tens of thousands of residents.
The disturbances, which erupted on 23 August 2025, quickly spread to neighbouring villages, claiming lives, destroying property and forcing more than 50,000 people from their homes.
At a ceremony in Accra, Interior Minister Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka said the committee was formed on the directive of the National Security Council to demonstrate government’s commitment to peace, security and social cohesion.
He explained that the committee’s terms of reference include facilitating the safe and dignified return of displaced persons, assessing the scope and dynamics of the conflict and evaluating the losses and damages incurred.
It will also promote reconciliation and dialogue, recommend sustainable peacebuilding mechanisms, support the restoration of livelihoods and submit actionable recommendations to strengthen local governance 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,” the Minister stated.
Mr Muntaka pledged full logistical and secretariat support from the Interior Ministry, urging the committee to collaborate with civil society groups, development partners and faith-based organisations to ensure its work has lasting impact.
He described the assignment as “heavy but honourable,” noting that the people of Gbenyiri were looking up to the committee as “instruments of peace, reconciliation and healing.”
Committee Composition
The mediation committee is chaired by Mr Emmanuel Habuka Bombande, a renowned conflict resolution expert. Other members include Alhaji Collins Dauda, Member of Parliament 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 of the West Africa Network for Peace-building; Sylvia Hormane Noagbesenu, Esq., Acting Director of the Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute at KAIPTC; Prof Ramatu Alhassan; and Dr George Amoh, Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council, who will serve as Secretary. The committee has one month to submit its report with recommendations aimed at securing long-term stability in the Savannah Region.
