By Musa Bai Sesay
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has announced that his government intends to demolish all structures built on disaster-prone areas especially those at the green belt, an area regarded as the largest source of water supply in the Western area including the capital, Freetown.
The President made the announcement during what authorities referred to as the first ever Presidential Town hall at the Freetown International Conference Center; aimed at bringing the president closer to his people to discuss pertinent national issues.
Responding to a question regarding his approach to address the effects of climate change in the country, President Bio said that his government intends to demolish all houses built above the Green Belt on the mountains of the Freetown Peninsula.
“Even if a house belongs to me or my family, it would be broken down,” he firmly stated.
The President stated that such radical stance is as a result of what could be referred to as the accelerated deforestation which has caused and is still causing loss of forest in the water catchment areas, and could deny the people of Freetown water to drink; pointing out that such act is responsible for the recent reported flooding in Freetown.
The head of state expressed his condolences to those affected by recent heavy rains, which have led to loss of life and property. “Those who have been affected by the latest heavy downpour, some losing their lives and properties, please accept my heartfelt condolence. I call on all to be more active and prepared for more rains.”
He emphasized that the demolition of structures in disaster-prone areas would proceed without bias. “I have instructed my authorities backed by the security forces to demolish all structures built on disaster-prone areas, with no consideration for political or religious affiliations,” he affirmed.
Bio called on all to come together and protect the environment for the betterment of the country and the future generations.
This move by President Bio is seen as a crucial step in mitigating the effects of deforestation and preventing further environmental degradation particularly in the Western region of the country.
Peoplesmind