Tensions have flared between residents of Kanouma in Senegal and Djataly in The Gambia following a border dispute sparked by a misunderstanding between a Senegalese forestry officer and a Gambian woodcutter.

The incident, first reported by Seneweb, has led to growing concerns over territorial rights in the region.

In response, authorities from both countries held a bilateral meeting on Tuesday at the border.

Among those present were the governors of Tambacounda and Makati, Guédj Diouf and Usman Bah, along with cartographers, religious and traditional leaders, and security forces from both sides.

Officials agreed to allow both communities to continue their daily activities in the contested zone while scientific sub-committees work to map the national boundaries.

A joint commission, comprising ten members from each country, including local officials such as mayors, sub-prefects, and village chiefs, is scheduled to meet on Thursday to define grazing routes for livestock, a vital issue for the pastoralist populations.

Authorities have urged calm and cooperation as efforts continue to resolve the dispute peacefully.

By Adama Makasuba