ACCRA, Aug. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Ghanaian government has dispatched additional police and military personnel to the country's Savannah Region to restore calm and end ethnic clashes between two groups, according to a statement released on Sunday.

The statement said the interior minister is also leading a high-powered delegation to meet with traditional and opinion leaders to discuss steps to end the conflict.

Violent clashes between the Brifo and Gonja ethnic groups over disputed land about a week ago have left nearly 20 people dead, hundreds injured, and more than 1,000 displaced, while farms, markets, and businesses remain abandoned or destroyed.

Communities have also been severely affected, resulting in deserted areas and a significant impact on livelihoods and the local economy.

President John Dramani Mahama urged all parties in the disputed area to support initiatives underway to end the conflict and restore normalcy, the statement added. ■