Over 90% of people displaced by Savannah conflict back home – Muntaka

Minister for the Interior Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka has revealed that over 90 percent of individuals displaced by the Savannah Region conflict have returned to their homes within three months of security interventions and mediation efforts. In an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on October 12, 2026, Muntaka highlighted that more than 40,000 people were displaced, some of whom fled to neighboring countries such as Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso.

He attributed the situation to a significant security challenge that necessitated curfews, security operations, and dialogue to mitigate the violence and enable the residents' return.

Muntaka explained that the authorities established a committee to mediate between the conflicting parties, which assisted in restoring calm and facilitating the return of the displaced individuals. He emphasized that the intervention not only helped secure the peace but also enabled more than 90 percent of those displaced to return to their homes within the given timeframe. Additionally, a standing committee was formed to maintain ongoing dialogue between the communities to prevent future escalations.

The minister underscored that the affected communities had long-standing family and social ties, which were sometimes disrupted by misunderstandings that escalated into violence. He noted that the return of displaced residents marked a significant step in resolving communal conflicts, while acknowledging the considerable sacrifices made by security personnel to ensure the safety and comfort of citizens.

Muntaka also pointed out that since the beginning of 2025, Ghana has experienced a decrease in curfews and a period of 150 days without gunfire in the volatile Upper East town of Bawku, indicating an overall improvement in the nation's security situation.