RESIDENT MINISTER EAST LEADS SIERRA LEONE DELEGATION IN MEETING WITH GUINEA AUTHORITIES.

RESIDENT MINISTER EAST LEADS SIERRA LEONE DELEGATION IN MEETING WITH GUINEA AUTHORITIES OVER YENGA-NONGOA BOAT ACCIDENT The Resident Minister East, Gbessay J.K. Ngobeh, has led a Sierra Leonean delegation to meet with authorities in Guinea following the tragic boat accident at the Yenga-Nongoa border crossing. The accident occurred on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, on the Makona River, while a motorised boat carrying passengers was travelling from Nongoa in Guinea towards Sierra Leone. The incident claimed the lives of a Sierra Leonean woman and an 18-month-old child, while a Guinean military personnel who was initially reported missing was later found dead. The meeting between the Sierra Leonean and Guinean authorities is aimed at strengthening cooperation, discussing the circumstances surrounding the accident, and addressing safety concerns at the busy border crossing. The Nongoa crossing is regularly used by people from both countries, particularly traders travelling to and from the weekly market. Reports indicate that the accident has renewed concerns about the safety of river transportation along the Makona River. Authorities are expected to work together to improve safety measures and prevent similar accidents in the future, while continuing cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. The meeting also highlights the importance of strong cross-border collaboration between Sierra Leone and Guinea, particularly in protecting lives and supporting communities living along the border.