NDMA to Demolish Flood-Prone Structures Across Sierra Leone

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has announced plans to demolish all structures that are prone to flooding and other disasters. This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, aims to mitigate the impact of heavy rains and prevent future flood-related damage.

Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulia, joined the NDMA team on a visit to several communities severely affected by today’s heavy downpours. The team’s first stop was the Portor Community in Juba, where land reclamation was identified as a significant cause of flooding. This issue has affected hundreds of residents each rainy season due to the blockage of natural waterways.

Next, the team inspected a culvert on Levuma Beach Road, an area known for severe flooding during rains. Observations revealed that the construction of retaining walls, blockage of waterways, and sediment accumulation are primary contributors to the flooding.

Hundreds of makeshift structures on Levuma Beach, which were inundated, have been identified as high-risk and residents have been advised to relocate. At the scene, Minister Jiwoh affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing demolition efforts to prevent further encroachment into waterways and reduce flood risks.

The destruction of natural mangroves, which previously prevented flooding, has left many areas highly vulnerable. The NDMA’s proactive approach seeks to restore these natural defenses and ensure the safety of affected communities.

Minister Jiwoh emphasized that the demolition of flood-prone structures is crucial to preventing future disasters and safeguarding the environment. The Ministry and NDMA will continue to work together to address these challenges and protect the well-being of Sierra Leone’s citizens.