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Foreign Minister Timothy Kabba provided Parliament with a comprehensive update on the ongoing border dispute between Sierra Leone and Guinea over the Yenga territory during an oversight committee meeting on Monday, February 3, 2025.
Minister Kabba outlined the historical context of the dispute, explaining that after the end of the civil conflict in 2002, Sierra Leone maintained a military presence on the first floor of the contested area.
He noted that following the war, the heads of state of both countries met at the Makona River and agreed on certain territorial principles, with the river serving as the boundary limit. However, the situation deteriorated over time.
The Minister expressed concern over the development, stating that around late 2003 (or more recently), the government learned that Guinean armed forces had built a small military camp near Yenga town. He explained that the order to occupy the area came from superior officers. Despite diplomatic efforts, little progress has been made.
Minister Kabba emphasized President Julius Maada Bio’s efforts to engage Guinea diplomatically. He highlighted the challenge of the lack of a clear diplomatic pathway, noting that Sierra Leone, as a civilian government, is bound by international diplomatic protocols, which complicates direct engagement with Guinea’s military-led administration. Nevertheless, President Bio continues to engage with Guinea’s top leadership and second-tier diplomatic representatives.
Minister Kabba concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to safeguarding its borders and protecting its citizens. He stated that discussions with Guinea also encompass broader issues such as border security, economic cooperation, and combating human trafficking and terrorism.
Their something about this yenga issues which the past and present government is hiding from us (the people of Sierra Leone) because it belong us,why can’t the Guinea government remove it people from our land.