Dr. Turad Senesie, the Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, has instructed the management of the University of Management and Technology (UNIMTECH) to vacate a 7-storey building deemed a significant disaster risk.

The order was given on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, during a critical meeting held at the Ministry’s Youyi Building office.

Dr. Senesie expressed deep concern over the safety of the building, which currently houses around 5,000 students. He highlighted that the structure poses a severe threat to occupants, emphasizing that it is not suitable for use. The Minister revealed that the building was constructed without the necessary permits or approved architectural and structural plans, raising serious regulatory issues.

Given these deficiencies, Dr. Senesie has mandated an immediate halt to all academic activities within the building and has instructed for its prompt evacuation. The Minister assured UNIMTECH management of the Ministry’s support in finding an alternative location for the university. He also announced plans for a comprehensive technical assessment of the building, to be conducted by independent engineers in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Institute of Engineers and other experts.

Dr. Senesie underscored the importance of adhering to safety regulations, noting that the government remains committed to protecting citizens from potential hazards associated with unsafe buildings.

“We have issued early warnings across Freetown about buildings and construction sites,” he stated, affirming the government’s dedication to ensuring public safety.