Bawku west: The Humanitarian and Social Affairs Directorate of ECOWAS and Ghana have jointly launched a support project on Persons of Concern (PoCS) at the Tarikom Refugee Camp in the Bawku West District. The six-month project, scheduled to commence on October 01, 2025, aims to support PoCS including refugees, asylum seekers, returnees, and internally displaced people.
According to Ghana News Agency, the joint project is set to be implemented in partnership with the Right To Be Free, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), the Ghana Refugee Board (GRB), and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO). At the launch, Dr. Stintiki Tarfa Ugbe, the Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs of the ECOWAS Commission, highlighted the significance of Tarikom, the host community for the refugees, as a representation of the spirit of regional integration.
Dr. Ugbe commended the traditional authorities and other stakeholders for not only receiving the refugees but also offering them land to farm, respecting, and protecting their dignity. She emphasized that this embodies the spirit of regional integration, showcasing how government policies are translated into action by the communities.
In her address, Dr. Ugbe expressed pride in the collaborative effort, stating that regional integration extends beyond meetings in capitals to the actions of host communities who bear the responsibilities of refugees. As part of the project launch, bags of rice and cooking oil were presented to various households in the camp, and interactions were held with the refugees.
Mr. Donatus Akamugri Atanga, the Upper East Regional Minister, noted that the joint project is a progressive step toward providing comprehensive protection and solutions for PoCS. He emphasized the symbolic choice of the Tarikom Refugee Camp for the project launch, acknowledging the needs and hopes of those seeking safety and a better future.
Mr. Atanga expressed gratitude on behalf of the government to ECOWAS for its leadership, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and other United Nations Agencies for their support. He also thanked development partners and donors for their resources and solidarity.
Naba James Ayoore, the Chief of Tarikom, highlighted the peaceful coexistence between community members and refugees from Burkina Faso, despite differences in nationality, culture, and ethnicity. He affirmed that the support project reflects the dedication and collaborative spirit of ECOWAS, marking a new chapter for PoCS to move freely within ECOWAS without hindrance.
Naba Ayoore expressed confidence that with collective effort and commitment from all stakeholders, the project would achieve success and deliver its intended goals.
