By: Fayia Jr Moseray
A devastating downpour on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, resulted in severe flooding across parts of Freetown, claiming the lives of four individuals and destroying properties worth millions of Sierra Leonean Leones. The worst-hit area was New England Ville, located in the western part of the capital, where a collapsing fence led to the loss of life and extensive property damage.
According to eyewitness accounts, the tragedy occurred when a fence, weakened by the force of accumulating rainwater, gave way and collapsed onto a nearby structure a “pan-body” house sheltering six people at the time. Four individuals, all from the same family, died in the incident. The two survivors were reportedly outside the structure when the collapse occurred.
Ishmael Kamara, a resident of the area, confirmed that the fence had long been in disrepair and had shown visible signs of structural weakness. He expressed frustration that warnings about the fence had gone unheeded.
Another witness, Abu Bakarr, told this reporter that three of the victims were recovered shortly after the collapse, while the body of the fourth victim a baby aged one year and six months was discovered the following morning.
Lansana, a representative of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), stated that the agency responded immediately upon receiving news of the incident. With assistance from community members, three bodies were initially recovered, and the fourth was located early Thursday morning.
Mr. Lansana emphasized that the NDMA is committed to safeguarding citizens from preventable disasters. He noted that the agency is working collaboratively with government bodies and private partners to implement measures to mitigate flood-related tragedies during the rainy season.
The NDMA has urged residents living in disaster-prone areas to relocate to safer locations. The agency, alongside climate change and disaster risk management partners, is intensifying efforts to minimize casualties and damage during future rainstorms.
Residents of New England Ville expressed grief and frustration over the tragic loss of an entire family. Many described the damaged structure as a long-standing “death trap,” blaming inaction and neglect for the incident.
The owner of the collapsed structure is reportedly in a state of mental shock and distress following the tragedy. His brother, known as “Bolo,” revealed that the incident had left him emotionally devastated and mentally unstable.
“My brother is completely broken. He hasn’t been the same since the incident. We are all heartbroken,” Bolo shared.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and pledged that the community would work to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This incident underscores the urgent need for better infrastructure maintenance, proactive risk management, and stronger enforcement of building and safety regulations. As Sierra Leone continues to face the challenges of climate change and urban flooding, all stakeholders including communities, government agencies, and international partners must play their part to protect lives and properties.