The Hearts of Gonja has moved to support 13 Gonjas who lost properties, loved ones, and were affected in several ways due to the recent Gbenyiri conflict in the Sawla/Tuna/Kalba area with cash donations.
Speaking at the event, Chairman for “The Hearts of Gonja”, Abdul Razack Yayaha, known as Zack Natomah, said the group is a youth-driven association devoted to preserving cherished customs and traditions. Their work includes ensuring every aspect of Gonja heritage follows due process, which is the foundation of their identity.
Recounting how their brothers and sisters from the Gonja side found themselves in the midst of a tragedy, the Gonja-Lobi conflict at Gbinyiri in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region, Natomah said “The Hearts of Gonja” is more than just custodians of tradition, they are a family that rises when one of their own falls, comforts when one suffers, and stands together in adversity.
Thirteen Gonjas, including the Gbiniyiriwura, the Bundiwura, and eleven others, have been left injured, traumatized, and struggling to rebuild their lives. “Until now, these victims have received no form of support from any person or organization. They are left to their faith, waiting for a helping hand, waiting for someone to care,” Mr. Zack disclosed.
“It is said that ‘the true measure of a community is how it treats its most vulnerable,” he added. “This is the time for us to show that we, the people of Gonja, stand for compassion, generosity, and humanity.”
As Chairman of “The Hearts of Gonja”, he proudly announced that, in collaboration with YAGBON BE KAYIGBON and the Sawla Youth Network, they have mobilized funds to support these victims. Appealing for more support, Zack Natomah acknowledged that their efforts alone are not enough due to the great needs and deep physical and emotional wounds. “That is why today, we are not just giving; we are also calling on every benevolent association, group, and individual with the heart of a true Gonja to rise and stand with us. Let us show these thirteen victims that they are not alone, that they belong to a community that cares, acts, and heals,” he said.
“Our ancestors built this Kingdom not only on courage but on compassion. When one of us was in pain, all of us felt it. When one of us needed help, all of us provided it. Let us keep that spirit alive today. Every contribution counts, every donation matters, and every support can change a life,” he emphasized.
He called for joint efforts to restore hope to the Gbiniyiriwura, the Bundiwura, and the eleven others, entreating that their support should be a message of unity, healing, and love, saying, “You are not forgotten. We are with you.”
He reiterated that true tradition is not only about rituals and successions but also about empathy and communal responsibility, praying that their actions would inspire generations to come.
On behalf of The Hearts of Gonja, YAGBON BE KAYIGBON, and the Sawla Youth Network, he appreciated all present, for their compassion and generosity. “The Gonja Kingdom stands as a symbol of courage and togetherness, and it is in this spirit that we are here today”, he concluded
