ECOWAS Urges Calm as Border Disputes Heighten Tensions in the Mano River Basin By Raymond Enoch
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called for calm and restraint following rising tensions along the borders shared by the Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, warning that the situation could undermine stability within the sensitive Mano River Basin.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the regional bloc expressed deep concern over the developments and urged the countries involved to prioritise dialogue and peaceful engagement to prevent further escalation.
To address the situation, the ECOWAS Commission announced the deployment of a technical assessment mission to examine developments in the long-disputed Yenga area between Sierra Leone and Guinea. The mission will assess the situation on the ground and engage national authorities as part of efforts to de-escalate tensions.
ECOWAS also revealed that the mission’s mandate has been expanded following recent developments along the Lofa border between Guinea and Liberia. According to the Commission, the emerging situation in that corridor has introduced additional complexities to already sensitive territorial dynamics within the Mano River Basin.
The expanded geographical scope will allow the technical team to carry out a broader review of areas where tensions could potentially escalate while facilitating diplomatic engagement among the affected countries.
ECOWAS urged all concerned Member States to exercise maximum restraint, respect internationally recognised boundaries and refrain from unilateral actions that could undermine bilateral relations or regional peace.
The regional body further encouraged the countries to utilise ECOWAS-facilitated diplomatic channels in resolving any disagreements peacefully.
“The Commission remains committed to working closely with national authorities to promote cooperation, mutual respect and lasting peace in the Mano River Basin,” the statement noted.
Border sensitivities within the Mano River Basin have long required careful diplomatic handling due to their historical and security implications. Analysts say ECOWAS’ swift intervention reflects its commitment to preventive diplomacy and regional stability.
With the technical mission expected to engage authorities in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, regional observers hope the initiative will help ease tensions and reinforce dialogue among the neighbouring states.
