By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
Falaba, August 12, 2026
Life in Kaliyereh, a town in Sulima Chiefdom, Falaba District, has become difficult as residents say an unclear border with Guinea is threatening their farms, businesses and daily movement.
For months, tension has grown after a dispute earlier this year left people unsure where Sierra Leone ends and Guinea begins. Town Chief Manka Momodu Samura said the situation is affecting farmers most. He alleged that Guinean officials and settlers are now claiming parts of land and swamps that local families depend on.
According to Samura, some residents can no longer access their farms. “Some parts of the town are even being claimed as belonging to Guinea,” he said. He noted the confusion has also made it unclear who should collect taxes and provide local leadership.
Residents showed reporters a pile of stones they believe marked the original boundary set by their ancestors. They are asking the government to investigate and confirm the official demarcation.
Youth leader Mohamed S. Turay said Kaliyereh already suffers from limited government presence, and the border issue is making things worse for traders. Woman trader Fatmata Samura said the unstable exchange between Guinean francs and leones is adding more pressure on small businesses.
The community is now calling on both governments to come together, resolve the dispute peacefully and clearly mark the border. They say this is the only way to protect farmland, restore trade and give residents peace of mind.
Samura also appealed for support from government, civil society and humanitarian organizations to help women and farmers most affected.
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