During the Sierra Leone Civil War Revolutionary United Front (RUF) forces with support of the Liberian NPFL captured Kangama on 6 April 1991, after a failed Sierra Leone Army (SLA) attempt to secure the Kailahun District. They immediately displaced the local chieftain, looting and burning his house. The RUF conscript the local youth into the army, both boys and girls, and a number of wealthy citizens were executed. From Kangama the RUF/NPFL forces launched an attack on Buedu, leaving Kangama in their rear. By January 1992 the RUF had completely pacified the district and the local conscripts had returned from training to help maintain order. However, in February 1992, SLA forces briefly took Kangama, causing much destruction, but the RUF quickly responded and retook the town.
