By: Aminata Sesay
Hon. Ing. Fallah Tengbeh, Member of Parliament for Kailahun District under the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), has welcomed the recent intervention by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in the long-standing Yenga border dispute between Sierra Leone and Guinea.
Speaking at a press briefing, Hon. Tengbeh expressed optimism that the visit of a high-level ECOWAS fact-finding delegation could lead to a peaceful and lasting resolution.
“My people have shown great patience and resilience. With the renewed commitment from ECOWAS and the Government of Sierra Leone, I believe the future is hopeful for Yenga and its surrounding communities,” he stated.
The ECOWAS delegation was led by Hon. Morie Lengor, Minister of Internal Affairs, and included representatives from the Mano River Union (MRU), the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Sierra Leone Police, the Office of National Security, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Beginning their mission in Freetown, the delegation traveled through Kenema and Koindu in the Kailahun District, engaging directly with affected communities and local leaders. Notably, the Paramount Chief of Nongoa in Guinea proposed the revival of annual MRU meetings to strengthen cross-border dialogue and cooperation.
Yenga, a village of both historical and strategic importance, has been at the center of previous bilateral agreements affirming Sierra Leone’s sovereignty. The renewed involvement of ECOWAS brings fresh momentum to diplomatic efforts. Sierra Leonean authorities have reiterated their commitment to peaceful negotiations.
Hon. Tengbeh emphasized that ECOWAS’s presence reflects confidence in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic approach. He reassured his constituents that the government is determined to secure access to farmlands and restore livelihoods through constructive dialogue with the Guinean government.
Minister Lengor echoed this message, urging residents to remain patient while regional partners collaborate on a long-term solution. He described ECOWAS’s involvement as
“a vital step in restoring peace, stability, and development for our border communities.”
As discussions and investigations continue, both Sierra Leone and Guinea are expected to work toward a mutual understanding—laying the foundation for increased cooperation, stability, and prosperity across the Mano River Union region.