The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, has clarified social media reports claiming that Sierra Leoneans are being banned from travelling overseas through Guinea’s airport.

According to a public notice issued by the Ministry on Thursday, August 20, 2026, Sierra Leoneans are not banned from travelling to or transiting through Guinea. The Ministry stated that citizens with valid travel documents who meet the relevant immigration and security requirements may continue to travel for legitimate purposes.

However, the notice explained that restrictions apply to Sierra Leoneans seeking to use Guinea as a transit route for migration or overseas employment outside established procedures.

The Ministry said Guinean authorities have raised concerns over cases involving irregular migration, suspected human trafficking and unverified overseas employment arrangements.

The Government further advised Sierra Leoneans intending to travel abroad for employment to follow all lawful recruitment, labour and immigration procedures. It noted that overseas employment arrangements should be verified through the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security before travel.

“Citizens should not use Guinea or other transit routes to bypass these procedures. Following the proper process helps protect travellers from trafficking, exploitation, fraudulent job offers and unnecessary travel difficulties,” the notice stated.

Sierra Leoneans experiencing difficulties while travelling through Guinea have been advised to contact the Sierra Leone Embassy in Conakry on +224 621 048 214 for consular assistance.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Guinean authorities and other international partners to facilitate legitimate travel and protect Sierra Leonean citizens.