Ghana: thousands flee renewed fighting

In mid-March 1995, violent ethnic fighting once again erupted in north-eastern Ghana. South of the town of Bimbila, clashes between Konkomba and Nanumba groups left 150 dead and some 1,300 homes in a dozen villages destroyed. Nearly 15,000 people fled from the area to seek refuge in neighbouring towns. The ICRC immediately purchased pump fuel and disinfectant to ensure a supply of vitally needed drinking water.

Feeling that rapid action should be taken to encourage the displaced people to return home as soon as possible, the ICRC, with the help of Ghana Red Cross Society staff, is going to launch a non-food relief (plastic sheeting, kitchen sets, etc.) and medical aid programme in order to meet the urgent needs of both ethnic communities.