Monrovia — The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has called for calm and a peaceful diplomatic resolution following emerging reports of tensions along the Foya–Sorlumba Border in Lofa County involving armed soldiers from the Republic of Guinea.
By Patience M. Jones, patience.jones@frontpageafrice.com
In a press statement issued Wednesday, WONGOSOL expressed concern over reports circulating in the media and among residents about developments in the area, including claims of the presence of Guinean soldiers and the raising of their national flag on land currently under dispute.
The organization noted that the reports are still evolving and emphasized the importance of verified information and responsible communication during such a sensitive period.
“The situation has reportedly created fear and uncertainty among residents of nearby communities, with concerns that civilians, particularly women, children and the elderly, may be forced to flee their homes or face disruptions to their daily lives,” the statement said.
WONGOSOL stressed that border communities are often the most vulnerable during moments of heightened tension and must be protected.
The organization also highlighted the long-standing relationship between Liberia and Guinea, noting that both countries share a history of cooperation and peaceful coexistence within the Mano River Union Region.
As member states of the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), WONGOSOL noted that both countries are guided by regional and international principles that emphasize respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
The group pointed out that the African Union Constitutive Act upholds respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states and prohibits the use or threat of force between African countries.
Similarly, the ECOWAS Protocol on Non-Aggression commits member states to refrain from acts of aggression and respect internationally recognized borders.
The ECOWAS Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security also provides frameworks for dialogue, mediation and diplomatic engagement to resolve disputes peacefully.
Against this backdrop, WONGOSOL called on the governments of Liberia and Guinea to urgently engage through diplomatic and regional mechanisms to clarify the situation, de-escalate tensions and reaffirm their commitment to peaceful coexistence and respect for international borders.
“Women, children, and families living in border areas should never bear the consequences of disputes between states,” the organization stated, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue and protect civilian populations.
WONGOSOL also urged the Government of Liberia(GoL) to ensure that citizens are kept informed about developments on the ground.
According to the organization, the government should provide timely and transparent information to the public while actively engaging its Guinean counterparts to resolve the matter peacefully.
The group emphasized that peace and security are critical for the safety and well-being of women, children, and the elderly, who are often the most affected during times of tension or conflict.
“Liberia has experienced periods of crisis in the past, and it is important that every effort is made to prevent situations that could threaten the stability and safety of our people,” the statement added.
WONGOSOL further urged the government to act in the best interest of its citizens by ensuring that peaceful relations with neighboring countries are maintained, noting that Liberians living in border communities must be able to move freely without fear of harassment, intimidation or threats.
The organization reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Lofa County and encouraged calm while calling on national and regional authorities to work swiftly toward a peaceful, lawful, and transparent resolution of the situation.
About WONGOSOL
The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) is a non-governmental, non-discriminatory, and secular women-based organization established in 1998 to coordinate the activities of more than 250 women-led organizations across Liberia’s fifteen political sub-divisions.
The organization works to empower women and girls, strengthen its network members, and promote the freedom and human rights of women, girls, and other marginalized groups. WONGOSOL plays a leading role in
advocating for gender equality, women’s political participation, peacebuilding, and the protection of human rights in Liberia.
