Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has announced that his government intends to demolish all structures built on disaster-prone areas.
He made this announcement during yesterday’s Presidential Townhall at the Freetown (Bintumani) International Conference Center in Aberdeen.
In a significant policy shift aimed at addressing environmental concerns, 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,” President Bio stated firmly.
“This radical stance is because of the accelerated deforestation which is causing loss of forest in the water catchment area, and could deny the people of Freetown water to drink; and is responsible for the ongoing flooding in Freetown.”
President Bio 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 also 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 stated.
“Let’s all come together and protect our environment for the betterment of our country and the future generations.”
This decisive move by President Bio is seen as a crucial step in mitigating the effects of deforestation and preventing further environmental degradation in the region.
