By Mariama Bundu
The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), in partnership with Concern Worldwide, has provided emergency cash assistance to victims of the recent fire outbreak at Signal Hill, along the Main Motor Road in Freetown.
The fire, which occurred on 18 June 2026, affected 17 households comprising 77 people. According to the NDMA, six oversized makeshift structures and five business shops were destroyed, leaving many families and traders in need of urgent support.
Following an assessment of the disaster, the NDMA engaged Concern Worldwide through its Inter-Pillar Coordination Meeting to mobilise assistance for affected residents. Concern Worldwide subsequently committed to providing cash support to help victims meet their immediate needs.
Beneficiaries received Le3,000 for food support, Le3,500 per household for temporary shelter, and Le500 for each affected child to assist with their welfare and wellbeing.
Speaking during the distribution, NDMA Principal Officer for Relief and Response, Ronald Turay, said the Agency remains committed to ensuring that disaster-affected communities receive timely and coordinated assistance through partnerships with humanitarian organisations.
Ward 437 Councillor Satta Kamara thanked the NDMA and Concern Worldwide for their swift intervention, noting that the support would help affected families begin rebuilding their lives after the disaster.
Concern Worldwide Programme Director, Sarah Cundy, also commended the NDMA for its leadership and coordination efforts, which she said ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those most in need.
The intervention forms part of the NDMA’s ongoing efforts to coordinate emergency support for disaster-affected communities across Sierra Leone through collaboration with development and humanitarian partners.
