By Sallieu S. Kanu
Kailahun District, Sierra Leone – A high-powered delegation of government officials and regional stakeholders visited Koindu Town in Kissi Teng Chiefdom on May 3, 2025, to engage with local authorities and residents over the long-standing border dispute concerning Yenga, a contested territory between Sierra Leone and Guinea.
The visit followed rising tensions between the youth of Koindu and the Guinean Armed Forces after Sierra Leonean citizens were reportedly displaced from Yenga. The delegation included senior government officials, security personnel, and representatives from the Mano River Union Peace and Security Directorate and the Government of Liberia, alongside local Paramount Chiefs.
Welcoming the delegation, Paramount Chief Ganawa of Kissi Teng Chiefdom expressed gratitude for the engagement, hoping it would mark a turning point toward resolving the crisis. He urged peaceful dialogue, stating, “With the presence of these high-level authorities, I believe that the problem of Yenga will finally come to an end by the grace of God.”
Government’s Commitment to Diplomacy
Minister of State, Hon. Gbessay Jusu Jaka Ngobeh, appealed to local youth for calm, assuring them that President Julius Maada Bio is committed to addressing the dispute through diplomatic channels. He acknowledged that the issue has remained unresolved for decades, spanning previous administrations.
“This is a deeply rooted issue inherited by President Bio. However, I assure you that he is committed to ending this crisis and restoring peace, unity, and tranquility to this region,” he stated.
Ngobeh further highlighted the presence of the Sierra Leone Armed Forces in Yenga as a demonstration of the government’s dedication to national sovereignty and the protection of its people.
Calls for Clarity and Peace
Representing the youth, John Tamba Focko called for a definitive resolution. “Within a reasonable time, we, the people of this Kissidom, want to know—does Yenga belong to Guinea or Sierra Leone?” he asked.
Paramount Chief of Nongoa, Chief Tamba G. Bongono, recounted his intervention to halt Guinean forces from constructing structures in the disputed area. Emphasizing the cultural and familial ties between both nations, he urged a diplomatic solution.
“We are brothers and sisters who share common interests. Let the armed forces from both countries withdraw from Yenga so civilians can return to peaceful coexistence,” he proposed.
Regional Leaders Push for Stability
Mano River Union Deputy Secretary-General for Peace and Security, Madam Ange Konan Mono, stressed the need for a lasting resolution, noting that peace is essential for development. Hon. B. Njamilah S. Bornguoi, representing the Government of Liberia, reaffirmed Liberia’s support for a peaceful resolution.
Government’s Assurance
In his concluding remarks, Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Morie Lengor, speaking on behalf of President Bio, reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution similar to Nigeria and Cameroon’s peaceful handling of the Bakassi Peninsula dispute.
“We do not want to return to the dark days of conflict in our country. Those displaced should return to their communities. Their safety is assured by the presence of the Sierra Leone Armed Forces, who will remain in place to maintain peace and security,” he stated.
Lengor urged the youth to remain vigilant but avoid retaliation, assuring them of continued government efforts toward resolving the matter.