Sierra Leone and Guinea Take a Step Closer to Peace Over Yenga Dispute

June 17, 2025

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Timothy Kabba, has confirmed that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will be hosting a key meeting this week aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the long-running border dispute over Yenga.

Dr. Kabba shared that over the weekend, officials from both Sierra Leone and Guinea—including military leaders, police officers, and local chiefs—met in Yenga village to begin discussions. The meeting was described as constructive, offering hope for long-awaited progress in the troubled region.

“This matter has dragged on for over 20 years,” Dr. Kabba noted. “But we are committed to a peaceful resolution that respects international law and the rights of our citizens.”

He emphasized that Sierra Leone views the situation as a violation of its sovereignty, and the government is actively engaging with Guinea to settle the issue. The Minister explained that while current efforts are being handled directly between the two nations, the matter has also been presented to ECOWAS, the African Union, and other regional bodies to increase diplomatic pressure and visibility.

Kabba didn’t rule out taking the matter to the International Court of Justice if talks don’t yield a solution. “All options remain on the table,” he said, “but diplomacy is our most powerful tool.”