Freetown, 23rd January 2024 – In line with its mandate to respond to disaster incidents across the country, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) responded to a recent fire incident at the agriculture quarter of the Presidential Lodge at Hill Station in Freetown. The incident, which occurred on the 20th of January 2024, was triggered by a fire resulting from poor electrification in one of the rooms, affecting 15 households.
The NDMA, through its Directorate of Relief and Response, conducted a preliminary assessment to ascertain the cause, impact, and effects of the incident. In responding to the victims, each of the 15 households received essential relief items, including jerry cans, blankets, kitchen utensils, camp nets, buckets, and mattresses from the NDMA.
Presenting the relief items, the Director General, Lit. Gen. (Rtd.) Brima Sesay, expressed sympathy to the victims and specified that the relief support was directly from His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. The Director General underscored the NDMA’s broader mission, emphasizing that it is not solely designed to respond to disasters but is actively working to mitigate disaster occurrences throughout the country. He highlighted the agency’s diligence in recording and responding to various disasters since its establishment.
NDMA’s Director of Relief and Response, Sinneh Mansaray, while addressing the victims, drew their attention to the two main types of disasters: man-made and natural. Mr. Mansaray stressed that many of the disasters the NDMA responds to are man-made. He urged victims to be mindful of their living choices and to avoid engaging in activities that pose risks to their lives and properties.
Col. Samuel Bob Farmar, Director of the Presidential Guard, expressed sincere appreciation for the agency’s swift response, acknowledging the critical role the NDMA is playing in ensuring the effective management of disaster-related matters across the country.
The NDMA’s comprehensive mitigation and response strategy not only reflects its commitment to managing disasters and emergencies in Sierra Leone but also underscores its dedication to building community resilience in managing local hazards nationwide.
