Government sets up mediation team to end Gbinyiri clashes

The government has taken decisive steps to end the violent land clashes in Gbinyiri in the Savannah Region with the inauguration of a seven-member mediation committee tasked to deliver a roadmap for peace within one month.

Interior Minister, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, who inaugurated the committee in Accra, explained that its formation was directed by the National Security Council in response to the escalating conflict, which erupted on August 23, 2025, in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District and spread to surrounding villages.

The clashes have left dozens dead, destroyed property, and displaced more than 50,000 people.

The committee will be chaired by Emmanuel Bombande, a well-known conflict resolution expert, and is made up of respected figures from Parliament, faith-based organisations, academia, and civil society.

Members include Alhaji Collins Dauda, Reverend Father Lazarus Annyere, Dr. Festus Aubyn, Sylvia Hormane Noagbesenu, Professor Ramatu Alhassan and Dr. George Amoh, who will serve as secretary.

Outlining their mandate, Mubarak Muntaka said the committee is expected to facilitate the safe return of displaced residents, assess the extent of the conflict and its impact, promote reconciliation among the affected groups, and recommend sustainable mechanisms for peace-building and institutional strengthening.

He stressed that their work must be carried out with impartiality, transparency and inclusiveness, engaging traditional leaders, opinion leaders, civil society and security agencies.

“The Government of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama expects that you will conduct your duties with impartiality, transparency, and inclusiveness… so that peace and trust can be rebuilt,” the minister said, assuring the committee of full logistical and support from his ministry.

He described the assignment as “heavy but honourable,” noting that the people of Gbinyiri and its surrounding communities look to the committee as instruments of peace, reconciliation and healing.

The mediation committee has one month to present its findings and recommendations to the government, paving the way for long-term peace and stability in the Savannah Region.