Boakai, Bio Push for Diplomatic Resolution to MRU Border Disputes

NAIROBI, Kenya – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., on Monday held bilateral talks with Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio on the sidelines of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, with discussions centred on peace, security, and regional cooperation within the Mano River Union (MRU).

During the meeting, President Bio described President Boakai as his “Big Brother” and emphasised the importance of continued engagements among regional leaders at a time when the Mano River Union was facing growing challenges.

The two leaders expressed concern over rising tensions and security issues along the borders of Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, warning that the situation threatens regional stability and progress within the MRU.

Presidents Boakai and Bio stressed that the diplomatic resolution of border disputes remains in the best interest of the people of Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. They discussed ongoing tensions involving Guinea and its neighbours and agreed on the urgent need to convene a Mano River Union Summit, an initiative earlier proposed by Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara during talks with President Boakai on Sunday.

The leaders also addressed delays affecting the MRU headquarters project and the restructuring of the Secretariat, both of which have reportedly stalled due to unresolved border disputes. They called for greater understanding and cooperation to strengthen confidence in regional peace and security efforts.

President Boakai further raised concerns about the reported influx of Burkinabè nationals into Liberia’s protected Sarpo National Park, attributing the movement to instability across the Sahel region. The issue was also discussed during his earlier meeting with President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire.

Both Presidents reaffirmed their belief that diplomacy remains the most effective path toward resolving the region’s growing challenges.