Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, March 3, 2026: Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, has assured the nation that diplomatic ties with Guinea remain strong following the release of 16 Sierra Leonean security personnel detained across the border. Speaking at the Government’s weekly press conference on Tuesday, Minister Kabba emphasized that the incident was resolved through a multifaceted diplomatic approach, underscoring the deep historical and cultural bonds between the two countries.
Minister Kabba confirmed that the 16 officers, arrested during a border disagreement, were treated with dignity while in custody. He credited the successful negotiations to the leadership of Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who coordinated the mission. Kabba stressed that the outcome reflects the enduring friendship between Sierra Leone and Guinea, noting that “conflict between the sister nations would be both unwise and unnecessary.”
Turning to global affairs, Minister Kabba addressed concerns about Sierra Leoneans in the Gulf region amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. He highlighted President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s call, in his role as ECOWAS Chair, for restraint and adherence to international law. Kabba reaffirmed that ECOWAS’s stance aligns with the African Union, urging renewed diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions.
Evacuation of Sierra Leoneans from Iran
In a significant development, Kabba announced the successful evacuation of 24 Sierra Leoneans from Iran to Armenia. The group included 14 students, one private citizen, three diplomats, and six locally recruited embassy staff. He assured the public that the Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely to safeguard Sierra Leoneans across the Gulf.
Minister Kabba reiterated that Sierra Leone–Guinea relations remain cordial, recalling Guinea’s historic role as a safe haven for Sierra Leonean leaders during past political instability. He emphasized that cultural and trade ties remain strong, and that diplomacy will continue to guide the relationship.
Minister Kabba’s briefing reassured citizens on two fronts: the safe return of detained security personnel from Guinea and the protection of Sierra Leoneans caught in Middle East tensions. His message underscored Sierra Leone’s commitment to diplomacy, regional cooperation, and the welfare of its people at home and abroad.