The Government of Sierra Leone has announced the reopening of the Yenga border crossing along the Makona River, following what it describes as sustained diplomatic engagements with the Republic of Guinea.
A statement from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education confirmed that the border is now open for movement, bringing an end to a closure that had persisted for an extended period.
“The reopening follows directives from His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and security coordination between the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces and the Guinean Armed Forces,” the statement read. It added that the process was “supported by political and administrative authorities from both countries.”
According to the agreement reached between the two nations, Sierra Leone will maintain revenue collection and immigration presence in Yenga. “The Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority will continue to collect revenue on Sierra Leonean territory, including Yenga, while the Sierra Leone Immigration Department will maintain its presence,” the statement said.
The agreement also includes a provision requiring Guinea to provide advance notice of any future border closures. “Both countries agreed that Guinea will provide Sierra Leone with at least 48 hours’ notice before any future border closure,” the statement confirmed.
The closure had caused significant humanitarian and economic hardship for residents in the area. “The closure had caused humanitarian and economic hardship, including the displacement of residents from Yenga to Koindu and surrounding communities,” the statement noted. It further stated that “during this period, the Government of Sierra Leone provided support to affected residents while pursuing diplomatic engagements that led to the reopening.”
The Government acknowledged that discussions on the safe return of displaced residents are still ongoing. “Discussions on the safe return of displaced Yenga residents are ongoing,” the statement added.
In reaffirming their commitment to regional stability, both governments pledged to strengthen bilateral relations. “The Governments of Sierra Leone and Guinea reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence, strengthened bilateral relations and continued dialogue towards a lasting resolution of the Yenga issue and other boundary matters,” the statement concluded.
