By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S.
Presidents Mamadi Doumbouya of Guinea, Joseph Nyuma Boakai of Liberia and Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone reaffirmed a joint commitment to peace, security and development along their shared frontiers following a tripartite summit in Conakry on March 16, 2026. Côte d’Ivoire attended the meeting as an observer.
The leaders reviewed recent tensions in border communities within the Mano River basin and agreed to intensify diplomatic and security cooperation to prevent and contain future incidents. In a final communiqué, they expressed concern about the global rise in crises and emphasized the disproportionate economic, security and humanitarian effects on developing countries.
Reiterating respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and good neighbourliness, the presidents said disputes would be resolved through peaceful diplomacy in line with Article 33 of the United Nations Charter. They pledged to restore and preserve the tradition of peaceful coexistence among border populations.
To bolster regional security, the three countries agreed to:
- Intensify joint border patrols and strengthen information and intelligence sharing;
- Establish rapid communication channels between local authorities and security agencies;
- Enhance cooperation between defence and security institutions to counter terrorism, transnational organised crime and trafficking.
The summit also highlighted the link between economic opportunity and long-term stability. The leaders committed to promoting trade, infrastructure development, energy cooperation, environmental protection and freer movement of people, goods and services in border areas to stimulate prosperity and reduce tensions.
National border-management agencies were instructed to meet urgently to coordinate responses, facilitate community dialogue and pursue technical work—backed by regional and international partners—to clarify and demarcate territorial and maritime boundaries and prevent misunderstandings.
The presidents announced plans to reconvene a Mano River Union summit within one month to revitalise the organisation and institutionalise regular dialogue on peace, security and development. They also agreed to reciprocal working visits to deepen bilateral ties and regional solidarity.
At the close of the summit, the leaders thanked Guinea for hosting the talks and praised the spirit of openness that characterised the discussions.
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