By Tamba James
Kailahun, 25th September 2026 — A high-level Sierra Leonean delegation has met Guinean authorities to investigate the deadly boat accident at the Yenga–Nongoa border crossing on the Makona River, which claimed three Sierra Leonean lives, including two children and a 70‑year‑old woman.
The delegation, led by Resident Minister East Hon. Engineer Fallah Tengbeh, joined Guinean officials, security personnel, traditional leaders, and traders to review the circumstances of the accident. Tengbeh confirmed that 31 passengers survived, while three remain missing.
Among the Sierra Leonean delegation were Assistant Inspector General of Police East Joe Kamanda Bongay, ONS District Security Coordinator Josephine Wuya Fatorma, Brigade Commander East GM Bangura, Paramount Chief Emmanuel Nyuma Ganawa III, and other senior stakeholders.
Discussions centered on three key areas:
Cause of accident — Guinean authorities reported that the boat suffered mechanical failure. The operator is now in custody and will face questioning.
Passenger count — Officials admitted figures remain estimates, as no passenger register existed. Some survivors fled directly to safety or medical care, complicating the tally.
Safety recommendations — Both sides agreed to strengthen safety protocols and encourage use of ferries over smaller boats.
Paramount Chief Ganawa voiced alarm over the poor condition of boats used along the crossing. Authorities responded by pledging stricter oversight and urging communities to report anyone linked to the accident.
Resident Minister Tengbeh signed an agreement with Guinean officials to prioritize ferry transport, with measures to make fares more affordable for traders, especially women engaged in cross‑border commerce. ONS Coordinator Fatorma recommended construction of the long‑proposed Peace Bridge as a permanent solution to prevent future tragedies.
Security leaders also expressed solidarity. AIG Bongay extended condolences to bereaved families, while Brigade Commander Bangura emphasized the close ties between Sierra Leone and Guinea, pledging military support when needed.
Guinean authorities promised continued collaboration with Sierra Leone to establish the full facts. Both sides appealed to residents along the Makona River to assist in locating missing persons and to cooperate with investigators.
The meeting is seen as a crucial step toward reinforcing bilateral cooperation and ensuring safer cross‑border transportation for communities that rely on the river for trade and travel.
