Wednesday 8 June 2011

Peace in Ivory Coast? why is the Ampain Refugee Camp in Ghana's Western Region recording more refugees

Now the average number of Ivorian refugees entering Ghana through the Elubo Border here in the Western Region has reduced from 300 in the heat of the conflict to 50. It is also a fact that since the post election conflict started, some Ivorian and Ghanaian citizens alike have been crossing the Elubo Boder for regular business and were not registered as refugees. 
This has been the basis for some who have argued for the status of those currently living at the Ampain Refugee Camp be classified as asylum seekers other than refugees as many refer to them. In so doing they must be treated as asylum seekers other than refugees. 
Alassane Ouatarra, after his investiture as President of the Ivory Coast called for reconciliation from either side of the conflict, his special envoy visited Ghana to meet the President John Evans Atta Mills to thank him for Ghana's support during the crisis. 
This paints a picture of a new beginning. If this is truly as it appears then why are the refugees not returning? The border is now open with hundreds of people crossing-over. among the hundreds some make their way to the Ampain Camp to be registered as refugees.The following is an interview with the Manager of the Ampain Refugee Camp, Keli Forson. He recounts some explanations people give to be registered among the thousands of refugees who are currently living in not so pleasant conditions.

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