Over 1,000 people in the northern district of Port Loko have been rendered homeless living rough on open fields, writes our correspondent. It follows a fire disaster in the Masimra chiefdom.
The inferno reportedly occurred on diverse dates at the end of April, destroying four houses at Norkorba, five at Yourni-Pet, 18 at Mayara and 24 at Tauidcom-Masieki.
According to the Regent Paramount Chief, Pa Roke Sesay II, the inferno was spread by a wild wind which broke out when some farmers were farm-burning.
Raymond Issa Kadris, who is spearheading the Masimra chiefdom disaster relief fund, has referred to the situation as “deplorable”.
He cited one Abu Kamara who used to serve as a banker for the villagers, who watched painfully as all his possession burnt to ash.
Tauidcom-Masieki is said to be the worst hit as only the two houses near the mosque were spared.
Raymond further confirmed to our correspondent who visited the towns that the people had lost everything ranging from their seed rice, clothing, food and shelter.
He appealed to government, non-governmental organisations and other humanitarian agencies for assistance, saying the situation was desperate and required immediate attention, especially as the rainy season approaches.
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