In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and humanitarian spirit, the Chinese Community in Ghana has stepped forward to provide critical support to victims of the recent conflict in Gbenyiri, located in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region.
On Friday, September 19, 2025, community representatives presented substantial relief items worth over one million Ghana cedis to the Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Salisu Bi-Awurebi, for onward distribution to the thousands of displaced residents.
Mr. Stephen Shun, Secretary to the Chinese Community in Ghana, spoke with evident emotion about the community’s motivation to act. “Today we gather here with a heavy heart to express our deepest condolences to the affected families and those we lost in this tragic conflict,” he stated during the presentation ceremony.
The response reflects the deep bonds that have formed between the Chinese community and their Ghanaian neighbors. “Ghana is our second home and its people have accepted and welcomed us,” Shun explained. “When we see our people suffering, our hearts are pained, and it is this concern that drives the Chinese Community in Ghana to act swiftly.”
The scale and speed of the community’s response has been remarkable. Working in coordination with the Chinese Embassy and various stakeholders, community leaders initiated a fundraising drive that garnered generous contributions from across the Chinese community in Ghana.
Mr. Weinkien Yang, Counsel to the Chinese Community, detailed the mobilization effort: “When the Chinese Community heard that over fifty thousand people, women and children were displaced, it took us approximately one week to be able to raise one million Ghana cedis from various stakeholders and associations within the Chinese Community.”
The donation encompasses essential items carefully selected to address immediate humanitarian needs:
- 1,200bags of rice
- 500 boxes of tomato paste
- 500 blankets
- Six 10,000-liter polytanks
- 500 buckets
- 230 boxes of mosquito coils
- 100 bags of washing powder
- 500 boxes of soap
- 50 boxes of sanitary pads
- 500 boxes of Kivo Gari mix
These items address critical needs including nutrition, shelter, water storage, hygiene, and health protection for the displaced population.
Hon. Salisu Bi-Awurebi, the Savannah Regional Minister, received the donations with deep appreciation, emphasizing the significance of the gesture beyond its material value. “This humble gesture speaks volumes,” he noted. “A gift is not measured by the volume of it but the intent behind the gift.”
The minister highlighted the unique position of the Chinese community in responding to this crisis. “Savannah, the home of His Excellency the President of Ghana, was affected by this unfortunate incident. It is only the Chinese Community that has come to our aid,” he observed. “This therefore tells us that in trying and difficult moments, our true friends are Chinese”.
The humanitarian effort has also prompted reflection on broader perceptions and relationships. Former Ambassador to China, Mr. Anane Demuyaakor, used the occasion to address misconceptions and encourage balanced media coverage of the Chinese community in Ghana.
“Certain incidents that have happened in the country make us tend to have very negative perceptions about China and Chinese,” he acknowledged, referencing issues like illegal mining. “I’m throwing a challenge, especially to the media, that when such stories come, let’s try to publicize good news like this and minimize the negative news about Chinese.”
District-level officials have also expressed gratitude while working to restore normalcy. Hon. Sikina Saaka, the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District Chief Executive whose constituents were directly affected, assured displaced residents that security measures are in place for their safe return.
Mr. Abdullai Mahmud, DCE for the Bole District, acknowledged that the Chinese community represents the third group to provide assistance, following the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and another Chinese organization that responded earlier.
This humanitarian response exemplifies how immigrant communities can become integral parts of their adopted societies, demonstrating care that transcends cultural and national boundaries. The Chinese community’s swift action underscores the reality that when crisis strikes, compassion knows no borders.
As the Savannah Region works toward healing and recovery from the Gbenyiri conflict, this gesture of solidarity stands as a testament to the power of community support and the bonds that unite people in times of need. The substantial contribution will provide immediate relief while serving as a foundation for rebuilding trust and stability in the affected areas.
The response of the Chinese Community in Ghana serves as a powerful reminder that true community extends beyond ethnic or national lines, encompassing all who call a place home and are willing to stand together in times of crisis.
