The Resident Minister of the North-West Region, Ambassador Dr. Umaru Bundu Wurrie, has issued an urgent call for immediate support for communities affected by the recent flooding in the region. He stressed the pressing need for immediate intervention, as the government alone cannot meet the diverse needs of the victims, especially given the many pressing national issues currently at hand.
Speaking at an emergency meeting held at his office in Port Loko, Ambassador Wurrie highlighted the widespread devastation across several communities in the region, calling the situation dire and saying that immediate intervention is needed. He specifically mentioned Lokomasama, Marampa, Kamasundu, and Burreh chiefdoms in Port Loko District and Samu, Mambolo, Briamaya, and Magbema chiefdoms, where significant damage occurred. In Karene District, properties worth billions of Leones were destroyed.
The minister revealed that more than 2,500 people have been displaced in Port Loko District alone, with over 5,300 bushels of s
eed rice destroyed. Both high sea tides and heavy rainfall have inundated homes and farmlands. Ambassador Wurrie expressed particular concern for women, children, and older people, many of whom are now without shelter, food, or clothing. He warned of a potential outbreak of waterborne diseases, as flooded latrines have contaminated hand-dug wells, leaving communities without access to safe drinking water. These specific needs highlight the urgency and severity of the situation.
The call for assistance was directed at non-governmental organizations and development partners operating in the North-West Region. During the meeting, representatives from the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) reported on a survey they conducted, highlighting the need for comprehensive data on the number of affected communities, displaced persons, and damaged properties across the three districts in the region.
Professor Sheik Umar Kamarah, Community and Public Relations Director for Marampa Mines Limited, described the sit
uation as desperate and urgently needed intervention. He proposed establishing a “Disaster Trust Fund” to provide initial resources for responding to future disasters. Professor Kamarah and Ambassador Wurrie contributed to the fund, each depositing 10 million old Leones.
The meeting concluded with the formation of a nine-member committee tasked with compiling comprehensive data on the flooding’s impact. Food, medicine, clothing, and relocation were identified as the most urgent needs for those affected. The group also agreed to engage local radio stations to raise awareness about climate change and its devastating effects. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for next Monday, with the participation of paramount chiefs, local council leaders, and representatives from mining companies in the region.
Source: Sierra Leone News Agency