270 bodies recovered after Sierra Leone mudslide

Sierra Leone is grappling with a devastating situation as recovery efforts are underway following a mudslide in the outskirts of the capital, Freetown. The Mayor of Freetown reported that 270 bodies have been recovered so far, but the death toll is expected to rise significantly as the search continues for those buried under the rubble. John Sisay, former CEO of Sierra Rutile Limited and a presidential aspirant, provided an update on the ground in Sierra Leone in an interview with CNBC Africa. Sisay highlighted the magnitude of the disaster, emphasizing that the exact number of casualties is still unknown, but images circulating worldwide paint a grim picture. The current death toll stands at 300, with many more feared dead. Emergency services are working tirelessly, but the scale of the devastation is immense. Most of those affected by the tragedy lived in unsafe homes and makeshift settlements. Sisay pointed out that the majority of the destroyed houses were poorly constructed without proper planning. He attributed the severity of the mudslide to deforestation and the proliferation of low-quality housing in high-risk areas. While flooding is not uncommon in Sierra Leone, the recent event stands out due to extensive damage caused by heavy rainfall in August. Discussing the root causes of the crisis, Sisay highlighted the lack of urban planning and overpopulation as key factors. He emphasized the need for sustainable housing solutions in safe locations to mitigate future disasters. Illegal deforestation and poor environmental practices have exacerbated the susceptibility of the region to natural calamities. In conclusion, Sisay underscored the importance of proactive measures to address the housing and environmental challenges facing Sierra Leone. The government and stakeholders must work together to implement long-term solutions and prevent similar tragedies in the future. As the nation mourns the lives lost in the mudslide, efforts are focused on providing relief to the affected communities and ensuring their safety moving forward.