Post a comment 
The ECOWAS Commission Headquarters in Abuja launched a fact-finding and assessment mission on Friday, August 29, 2025, to address the longstanding border dispute concerning Yenga, a village in Sierra Leone’s Kailahun District. The mission was led by Hon. Morie Lengor, Minister of Internal Affairs of Sierra Leone, and included representatives from various government and regional stakeholders, including the Mano River Union and the RSL Armed Forces.
Starting in Freetown, the mission engaged with key government entities like the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development and the Office of National Security before continuing to Kenema and then Koindu in Kailahun District. Upon arrival, Hon. Lengor welcomed the ECOWAS team, outlining the mission’s objectives and urging residents to cooperate fully. He reassured displaced communities of the government’s commitment to resolving the Yenga issue through diplomatic means.
H. C. Mohamadou Njie, representing the ECOWAS Ambassadors, clarified that while the mission focuses on the Sierra Leonean side, it is intended to address issues related to both Sierra Leone and Guinea. He noted that Sierra Leone responded positively to engagement, while Guinea requested additional time for discussion.
The delegation received a warm welcome from local leaders, including Paramount Chief Ganawa and the local Member of Parliament, before embarking on site visits and focus group discussions in Koindu. During the visit, Hon. Ing. Fallah Tengbeh highlighted the proximity of Guinean military officers to the village and stressed the deep cultural ties between Sierra Leoneans and Guineans in the region.
Tengbeh reported on the humanitarian situation, revealing that residents of Yenga remain displaced with insufficient support. Despite the government’s provision of rice in April, essential supplies are lacking, and the Guinean Armed Forces have continued to occupy the village, causing fear among local communities.
Brig. Gen. George M. Bangura, Brigade Commander of the RSLAF, outlined security challenges, stating that higher-level approval is needed for access to the contested zone.
Mrs. Ange M. C. Konan Munu, representing the Mano River Union, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration, stating, “Whether through MRU or ECOWAS, the ultimate goal remains peace, unity, and stability in the sub-region.”
