By: Jenneh S. Kemokai |Grand Cape Mount Correspondent
Mano River Congo, Grand Cape Mount County |April 29, 2026 | The International Organization for Migration began a four-day community engagement in Porkpa and Tewor Districts on Monday, the 28 of April 2026 aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation and protecting the Gola Rainforest National Park.
The Grand Cape Mount initiative was launched in Mano River Congo, Porkpa District, and convened stakeholders from 10 project communities from border crossing points with support from the UN Peacebuilding Fund.
The engagement focuses on five thematic areas: Trust-Accountability-Transparency, Conflict resolution, Border management, Community policing, and Natural resource management. Organizers say the project seeks to protect biodiversity, empower women and youth, boost community resilience, and foster dialogue in the Sierra Leone-Liberia border region.
The Gola Forest Landscape has faced mounting pressure from illegal mining and farming, activities that officials say fuel both conflict and environmental degradation. The project is designed to support sustainable management of the Gola Rainforest National Park while promoting a long-term legacy of cross-border collaboration.
During the opening session, Paramount Chief Jamiatu Watson of Porkpa District urged the Government and Gola National Park partners to clearly demarcate the park’s boundaries.
“We need the line shown to our people so they know where they can farm and carry on agricultural activities,” Chief Watson maintained.
The General Town Chief of the Sokpo Clan relayed similar concerns from residents. “My people sent me to ask when you will come to show us the boundary,” she said. “Since it was said that the forest would be restricted, there have been no farming activities. My people are afraid they will unknowingly farm inside the park.”
Participants also appealed to the national government for additional support for security forces stationed at border points. Requests included solar lights, stationery, transportation, and new uniforms.
The Youth Chairman of Mano River Congo said the current security presence remains inadequate. “The security in the district is not enough. People come from across the border, commit crimes, and escape,” he said.
The IOM-led engagement will continue from Wednesday through Thursday, with sessions planned in Tienii Town Tewor Districts with cross-sections of Community members from bordering Communities including County Stakeholders.
