Over 2,000 Liberian refugees in Ghana have been rendered homeless. This follows an unrestrained demolition exercise at Buduburam, the largest refugee camp in the country, on Tuesday.
The demolition is said to make way for the construction of a new market, which, among others, would allow for the modernisation of a major highway, presently taken over by street hawkers and other trading activities.
Residents of the decades-old camp which was sprawling out pf control, were caught unaware by the demolition teams, and could be seen frantically salvaging their belongings ahead of the heavy equipment.
Including some Ghanaians, the displaced have taken over classrooms in the area, forcing some schools to close down temporarily.
Residents who spoke to the media appealed to the authorities to reconsider the decision as it would result in homelessness for many.
The popular camp has over the years gained notoriety as a haven for criminals and illicit activity.
Plans to demolish the camp were approved for execution in 2021, but was reconsidered on humanitarian grounds. However there is a planned initiative to rehabilitate a similar facility to enable the relocation of the refugees.
The Buduburam Camp was established by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in 1990.
It is said to have held more than 12,000 refugees at the time of its establishment.
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