Growing Fire Crisis Grips Kori Chiefdom in Moyamba District

For the past five years, the Kori Chiefdom in Moyamba District has been grappling with an escalating threat of fire accidents and disasters, causing widespread destruction to farms and communities.

Unknown sources of fire have ravaged numerous plantation farms, including palm fruits, pineapple, rice, cassava, and other vital cash crops, leaving farmers devastated and their hard work up in smoke.

In 2024 alone, the chiefdom has already witnessed four fire accidents, intensifying the ongoing crisis. One of the recent incidents occurred in Fogbob village, where Chief Ernest Lissa’s house fell victim to flames from a known source in December. The fire not only obliterated the chief’s residence but also left five households in ruins, wiping out two decades of hard work.

Waima Village faced its own tragedy as Martha Josiah’s entire dwelling house was reduced to ashes, rendering three households, comprising 15 individuals, homeless in an instant.

Renowned businessman and farmer, Mr. Mohamed Alhaji Kamara, suffered a substantial loss when his four-acre pineapple farm in Kawella was destroyed on December 10th, 2024. The fire consumed years of hard work and investment, underscoring the severe consequences of these recurrent fire disasters.

Local authorities are now under pressure to take immediate action and implement comprehensive bylaws to mitigate the perpetual fire disasters in Kori Chiefdom.

The affected victims are urgently appealing for help and support in the face of these devastating incidents. The implementation of preventive measures and the establishment of a robust fire response system are deemed crucial to safeguarding the livelihoods and properties of the community members.

As the residents of Kori Chiefdom grapple with the aftermath of these fire disasters, there is a hopeful anticipation that swift action will be taken to prevent further loss and devastation in the future. The urgent call for assistance from the victims emphasizes the pressing need for a coordinated effort by local authorities, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to address this growing crisis effectively.