Yenga, Kailahun District, May 2025 — Rising tensions along the disputed Sierra Leone–Guinea border have once again plunged residents of Yenga and surrounding communities into fear and uncertainty, prompting a wave of displacement and deepening humanitarian concerns.
In recent days, numerous families—including women, children, and the elderly—have fled their homes in panic, carrying only what they could manage. Eyewitnesses in affected areas describe scenes of distress as residents scramble for safety, with some trekking long distances to seek refuge in nearby towns such as Koindu.
The root of the unrest lies in the unresolved border dispute between the two West African nations over Yenga, a region claimed by both countries. The situation has escalated amid reports of unconfirmed movements by armed men believed to be from Guinea, alleged establishment of informal checkpoints, and the sudden appearance of individuals claiming authority over the area.
Koindu residents described frightening incidents of late-night alarms, forced evacuations, and threatening encounters with unidentified armed men. “We were told to leave immediately, but no one could explain why. All I know is we feared for our lives,” said one displaced woman who fled with her children.
Several women who spoke to this reporter shared harrowing accounts of being forced to abandon their homes, farms, and belongings. Many now find themselves without food, shelter, or any clear indication of when—or if—they can return.
Despite the growing crisis, residents report little to no communication from national authorities, leaving communities feeling abandoned in the face of potential violence. Civil society groups and local leaders have called for urgent government intervention to protect citizens and provide clarity on the status of the Yenga border.
“This is not just a border issue anymore—it is a humanitarian emergency,” said one community elder. “People are suffering. They need protection, guidance, and peace.”
The Yenga border dispute, which dates back over two decades, has seen repeated flare-ups despite numerous bilateral talks and regional mediation efforts. The current resurgence of tensions underscores the fragility of the peace in the region and the pressing need for a durable resolution.
As uncertainty looms, displaced families are pleading for calm and swift action from both the Sierra Leonean and Guinean governments to end the cycle of fear and restore stability to a region long caught in the crossfire of diplomacy and delay.
By Feima Sesay
