The vital border crossing at Yenga village along the Makona River has officially reopened following sustained diplomatic engagements between the governments of Sierra Leone and Guinea.
The border, which had remained closed since April 28, 2025, officially resumed operations on June 24, 2026, at the Koindu–Nongoa crossing point in the Kissi Teng Chiefdom of the Kailahun District. The reopening marks a critical milestone that will allow vital cross-border trade and the free movement of people to resume between the two neighboring West African nations.
The prolonged border closure had previously triggered severe humanitarian and economic hardships in the region, leading to the displacement of numerous Yenga residents to Koindu and other surrounding communities. Throughout the shutdown, the Government of Sierra Leone provided direct support to the affected population while actively pursuing the diplomatic channels that ultimately paved the way for the breakthrough.
According to a public notice issued by Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the reopening follows official directives from President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. It was achieved through extensive engagements between the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces and the Guinean Armed Forces, heavily supported by political and administrative authorities from both countries.
Under the newly agreed bilateral arrangements, the Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority will continue its revenue collection operations on Sierra Leonean territory, including within Yenga village, while the Sierra Leone Immigration Department will fully maintain its operational presence at the border. In a bid to prevent sudden disruptions in the future, both countries have also agreed that Guinea must provide Sierra Leone with at least 48 hours’ notice prior to enacting any future border closures.
Looking ahead, both governments have publicly reaffirmed their long-term commitment to peaceful coexistence, strengthened bilateral relations, and continued dialogue aimed at reaching a permanent, lasting resolution to the Yenga territorial issue and other outstanding boundary matters. Meanwhile, official discussions regarding the safe and structured return of the displaced Yenga residents remain ongoing.
ABJ/APA