By Claudia Redwood-Sawyerr
Major General Kemoh Sesay, Chief of Army Staff of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, has commended the professionalism and restraint demonstrated by Sierra Leonean troops during a recent border incident with Guinean forces in Kaliyereh.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education press conference held at the Miatta Civic Centre on Tuesday, 3rd March 2026, Major General Sesay provided a detailed account of the situation, explaining that the commanding officer on the ground made a calculated decision to prevent escalation.
“The officer made a battle appreciation,” he stated. “He understood that even if shots were fired and some lives lost, it could escalate into a full-scale conflict between two sister nations.”
According to the Army Chief, Sierra Leonean troops, though surrounded and requested to hand over their weapons, chose not to engage in gunfire. In a disciplined move to de-escalate tensions, they complied peacefully and were taken into Guinea without resistance.
“It takes bravery and discipline to de-escalate rather than escalate,” Major General Sesay said.
While dismissing claims of weakness, he described the soldiers’ actions as a demonstration of extreme discipline, patriotism, and commitment to regional stability. He highlighted the longstanding cultural and historical ties between Sierra Leone and Guinea, noting that peaceful resolution remains paramount.
Major General Sesay further called for a comprehensive joint boundary survey involving both countries and neutral bodies such as the Mano River Union, ECOWAS, or the African Union to definitively address border concerns. He proposed the survey should extend from Pamelap through Kambia, Falaba, Kono, and Kailahun Districts to ensure a permanent and mutually recognised settlement of boundary issues.
“Once we carry out a full joint survey of the land border, issues like Sokoma will naturally be resolved,” he added, stressing that until such a coordinated and officially recognised survey is conducted, it would be inappropriate for any party to make definitive territorial claims.
He concluded by reaffirming the RSLAF’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Sierra Leone’s territorial integrity while maintaining peace and strong diplomatic relations with Guinea, commending the captain and troops involved for protecting national security and preserving harmony between the two nations.
