By: Isaac Kwabena Boadu Date: 17th March, 2026
The presidents of Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone met in Conakry, Guinea, to address escalating border tensions between Liberia and Guinea.
The ongoing tensions stem from longstanding disputes over colonial-era borders and competition for control of valuable mineral resources. The Mano River Union (MRU), formed in 1973 to promote economic cooperation among Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone and later joined by Côte d’Ivoire, has faced recurring cross-border conflicts.
Guinean troops allegedly crossed into Liberian territory, removed the Liberian flag, and hoisted the Guinean flag. The dispute involves sand-mining activities and control of the Makona River, a natural boundary between the two countries.
The leaders agreed to establish joint technical commissions to examine border delimitation and management, intensify joint border patrols, and establish rapid communication systems. They also agreed to maintain the status quo regarding current border positions while negotiations continue and to strengthen joint efforts against terrorism, transnational crime, and trafficking.
AFRICAN VOICES INTERNATIONAL, FREEDOM IN AFRICA
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