By Emma Black
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Retired Assistant Inspector General Morie Lengor Esq., underscored the critical role of the GOLA-REAP Project (Resilience, Empowerment, Access, and Peacebuilding) in fostering peace and cooperation between Sierra Leone and Liberia during the third Steering Committee Meeting held in Monrovia. The meeting, attended by government ministers, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners from both nations, focused on reviewing project progress, endorsing updates, and charting strategic directions for future implementation.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion, Minister Lengor described GOLA-REAP as a pivotal peacebuilding initiative that has strengthened bilateral ties. He cited a recent example, stating, “Persistent concerns about a potential border conflict in Koindu were swiftly addressed through collaboration with Liberia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, averting a crisis reminiscent of Yenga. This is a testament to GOLA-REAP’s success in promoting stability.” The project, launched on February 27, 2025, is a cross-border effort to enhance peaceful coexistence, develop sustainable livelihoods, and protect the Gola Forest, a vital transboundary ecosystem supporting biodiversity and cross-border trade.
During the meeting, Liberia’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. F. Sakila Nyumalin Sr., warmly welcomed Minister Lengor by presenting him with a traditional cultural costume, a gesture reciprocated by Lengor with a gift to his Liberian counterpart. Hon. Nyumalin emphasized the ecological and social significance of the Gola Forest, stating, This ecosystem is crucial for both nations. Protecting it preserves biodiversity and strengthens community resilience.” He reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to the project, highlighting its potential to drive regional cooperation, environmental conservation, and inclusive development within the Mano River Union.
Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs, Patrick Gibrilla, stressed the importance of youth engagement, noting, “Young people are key agents of change. Empowering them with meaningful roles in peacebuilding and development is essential for the sustainability of GOLA-REAP.” Similarly, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Liberia, Eddie S. Massally, advocated for the inclusion of Paramount Chiefs from both countries in all Steering Committee activities to ensure community ownership and long-term impact.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, Madam Sarafina Wakana, highlighted the meeting’s role in advancing peace and regional integration, stating, “GOLA-REAP goes beyond conservation it fosters sustainable livelihoods and harmony among border communities.” Her counterpart in Liberia, represented by Mr. Christian Mukosa, emphasized that the discussions would enhance bilateral development cooperation. The Mano River Union’s Secretary General, Simeon Moribah, reiterated the Secretariat’s dedication to preserving the forest and promoting regional peace.
Implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Governments of Sierra Leone and Liberia, the Mano River Union Secretariat, and national institutions like Sierra Leone’s National Protected Area Authority (NPPA) and Liberia’s Forestry Development Authority (FDA), GOLA-REAP encourages collaboration among local communities, forest rangers, border authorities, and traditional leaders. Representatives from Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Planning and Economic Development and other stakeholders actively participated, offering questions, suggestions, and recommendations to strengthen project execution.
The meeting concluded with actionable recommendations, including follow-up field assessments and discussions to consolidate peace, enhance community resilience, and protect the Gola transboundary forest. Accompanying Minister Lengor, Ambassador Massally joined him in a courtesy visit to Liberia’s Minister of Justice, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, further reinforcing bilateral ties.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 13th October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
