MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia has announced a series of urgent measures aimed at de-escalating tensions along its border with Guinea, following growing concerns over troop movements in Lofa County. Authorities say the situation remains under control, but continues to receive “utmost priority” at the highest levels of government.
In a statement issued Tuesday, March 17, 2026, Information Minister Jerolinmek Mathew Piah reassured the public that the government is closely monitoring developments. “The situation along the Liberia–Guinea border in Lofa County remains under close attention and is being addressed with the utmost priority,” Piah stated, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability.
The statement follows a Joint Communiqué issued by the governments of Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone, reaffirming their shared commitment to safeguarding peace along their common borders. The communiqué highlights the longstanding tradition of peaceful coexistence among communities in the Mano River Union and calls for an immediate return to the status quo.
A major breakthrough came when the Government of Guinea reportedly ordered its military forces to withdraw to their previous positions along the border. The Liberian government welcomed the move, describing it as a constructive step toward easing tensions and restoring normalcy in affected communities.
However, earlier reports of troop movements in the Solumba area of Lofa County sparked anxiety among residents and raised fears of a potential escalation. Addressing these concerns, Piah clarified that the movements were part of Guinea’s operational process to implement the withdrawal directive. “Following engagement with the Guinean authorities, Liberia has been informed that these movements were undertaken as part of the operational process to implement the withdrawal directive,” he explained.
The three Heads of State also reaffirmed their commitment to resolving disputes through diplomatic channels, referencing United Nations principles. Specifically, they cited Article 33 of the UN Charter, which encourages peaceful settlement of disputes through dialogue, negotiation, and mediation rather than confrontation.
As part of immediate actions to stabilize the situation, the Liberian government announced the suspension of all mining-related activities in the border region. This includes operations by BK Enterprises and other companies engaged in sand mining or similar activities, pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation by the National Security Council of Liberia.
In addition, residents of border communities have been urged to remain calm and law-abiding as security forces work to restore order. Piah stressed that joint security forces are actively managing the situation to ensure the safety of all المواطنين, warning citizens against taking matters into their own hands.
The government also issued a stern warning against the spread of misinformation and disinformation, which it said could inflame tensions and undermine national security. “Such actions will not be tolerated and will be addressed in accordance with the laws of the Republic,” Piah cautioned, while urging the media to report responsibly and verify information through official channels.
Despite the tensions, the Government of Liberia maintains that it remains fully committed to protecting its territorial integrity while working collaboratively with neighboring states to preserve peace within the Mano River Union. Authorities have pledged to keep the public informed as the situation evolves, signaling cautious optimism that diplomatic efforts will prevail over conflict.
