By: Saidu Jalloh
In a dramatic revelation during a government press briefing held on April 15, 2025, at the Miatta Conference Center, Chief Fire Officer Nazir Kamanda Bongay disclosed the official cause of the recent fire at the 34 Military Hospital. The early morning blaze, which broke out on Tuesday, sparked public concern due to the hospital’s critical role in healthcare and emergency response.
According to Mr. Bongay, the fire was first reported at approximately 6:00 a.m. Upon receiving the distress call, the Sierra Leone Fire Force immediately dispatched five fire engines to the scene. Thanks to their swift response, the flames were extinguished within two hours.
Importantly, Mr. Bongay clarified that the fire was not caused by electrical faults or appliances. “The fire at the 34 Military Hospital was not caused by any electrical faults or appliances,” he stated. “Instead, it originated from an external blaze, and the radiant heat penetrated the hospital’s store—a warehouse storing emergency equipment, including beds and scrubs—igniting its contents.”
Furthermore, Mr. Bongay addressed recent speculation about a fire incident at State House, attributing that blaze to the use of substandard electrical materials and the fact that several appliances had been left powered on, ultimately triggering the fire.
In a broader overview of fire-related incidents nationwide, Mr. Bongay revealed a concerning uptick in cases. “From January to March this year alone, we recorded 215 fire incidents—the highest figure we’ve seen in such a short period,” he noted. As a result, the Fire Force has increased its investments in more fire engines and enhanced training for personnel.
Mr. Bongay also emphasized that delays in responding to some fire emergencies are not always due to the Fire Force’s shortcomings. “Traffic congestion and unplanned construction in areas without proper access roads significantly hinder our efforts,” he stressed.
The 34 Military Hospital remains a critical healthcare institution in Sierra Leone, renowned for its medical research and commitment to public health. Despite the recent fire, the hospital continues to serve the population with resilience and dedication.
As the Fire Force rolls out new fire service stations and expands its capacity, citizens are being urged to take fire safety seriously, especially during the dry season when incidents are more likely to occur.