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On the eighth anniversary of the tragic Regent mudslide, First Lady Fatima Bio paid tribute to the victims of one of the deadliest natural disasters in Sierra Leone’s history.
In a heartfelt message released on Thursday, 14 August 2025, she reflected on the lives lost, the resilience of survivors, and the nation’s responsibility to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
On 14 August 2017, a massive mudslide swept through the Regent community on the outskirts of Freetown, claiming over 1,000 lives and leaving thousands homeless, bereaved, and traumatized. Homes were buried, families torn apart, and the nation plunged into mourning.
In her message, the First Lady emphasized that the mudslide was not just a natural disaster, but a deeply human tragedy.
“Among the victims were mothers and fathers who worked tirelessly to provide for their children, young people with ambitions for education and careers, and elders who held decades of wisdom,” she wrote. “Their absence is still felt in the streets, marketplaces, classrooms, and in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.”
She highlighted the extraordinary spirit of unity that emerged in the aftermath, praising neighbors, health workers, and volunteers who risked their lives to rescue survivors and support those affected. “The world watched as a small nation showed great courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss,” the First Lady said.
While commemorating the past, First Lady Fatima Bio also called for action to prevent future tragedies. She urged Sierra Leoneans to prioritize environmental stewardship, urban planning, and disaster preparedness, emphasizing that honoring the victims requires safeguarding future generations.
The First Lady extended her deepest sympathies to families still grieving, acknowledging the enduring pain of survivors. She also recognized their resilience, noting that their courage “is a beacon of hope, showing that even in the shadow of tragedy, the human spirit can endure.”
Concluding her message, she affirmed the nation’s commitment to remembrance and solidarity: “We remember. We stand together. We will not forget.”
