Freetown, July 24, 2024 – In response to the severe flooding crisis that has recently plagued Freetown, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr has spearheaded a multi-agency initiative to develop comprehensive solutions to mitigate future flooding and address climate change challenges.
In a statement in an interview with the STEAM Reporting Network reporter, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr outlined the outcomes of a highly productive meeting with key officials, including the Minister of Environment, Minister of Local Government, Deputy Minister of Lands, the National Security Coordinator from the Office of National Security (ONS), Director General of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Joint Force Commander of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Director General of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), and the Chairman of Ward C.
During the meeting, stakeholders discussed the root causes of the flooding and the measures their respective institutions are implementing to address these issues. Key topics included, the lack of strategic land use planning has exacerbated flooding issues, with many areas being developed without proper consideration of environmental impacts.
The current process for issuing building permits was scrutinized, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure that construction projects do not contribute to flooding, and Deforestation has led to significant silt accumulation on roads and gutters, blocking drainage systems and increasing flood risks.
The existing drainage infrastructure is insufficient to handle heavy rainfall, necessitating upgrades and expansions, and poor sanitation practices and restricted road access further complicate flood management efforts, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr emphasized the importance of a coordinated response, presenting a slide that highlighted Freetown’s environmental challenges and showcasing photos of the Freetown City Council’s (FCC) ongoing efforts to clear silt from Mellon Street. The collaborative team has scheduled joint institutional assessments in the coming days and plans to hold regular meetings in anticipation of further heavy rainfall.
The Freetown City Council, under Mayor Aki-Sawyerr’s leadership, has been actively involved in climate change initiatives. These efforts include, and to combat deforestation, the FCC has launched extensive tree planting campaigns to restore lost vegetation and improve urban green spaces.
The FCC conducts public education programs to raise awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal and environmental conservation, and plans are underway to upgrade the city’s stormwater drainage systems to better cope with heavy rainfall and prevent future flooding.
The recent flooding in Freetown underscores the urgent need for coordinated action and comprehensive planning to address climate change and environmental challenges. Mayor Aki- Sawyerr’s leadership and the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies demonstrate a commitment to finding sustainable solutions that will protect Freetown’s residents and infrastructure from future climate-related disasters.
Residents are urged to stay informed about ongoing initiatives and participate in community efforts to enhance environmental resilience and flood preparedness. Further updates will be provided as the collaborative team progresses with their assessments and action plans.