Sierra Leone’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has conducted a preliminary impact assessment following a devastating fire outbreak at Race Course Road, Up Gun, Freetown.
The fire, which erupted at approximately 11:30 PM on Sunday, 9th March 2025, destroyed 26 spare parts shops and four vehicles, causing extensive financial losses and impacting hundreds of livelihoods.
Upon receiving the alert, the NDMA said in a press statement that it promptly engaged the National Fire Force (NFF) to contain the blaze. NDMA further explained that the agency’s disaster officers were deployed to the scene to oversee response efforts and assess the extent of the damage.
During an on-site assessment, NDMA officials estimated total losses at NLe 6,480,000.
According to Ronald Turay, NDMA’s Senior Relief and Response Officer, an eyewitness suggested that the fire may have been an act of sabotage. The agency is collaborating with victims and relevant authorities to investigate these claims and ensure accountability.
Although no casualties were reported, traders suffered significant losses. A motor spare parts dealership, which had been in operation for over 12 years, lost goods valued at NLe 6,105,000, in addition to large sums of cash stored in safes. Meanwhile, the four destroyed vehicles, which were undergoing maintenance, had an estimated combined value of NLe 375,000.
Sinneh Mansaray, NDMA’s Director of Relief and Response, assured victims that the agency will engage relevant partners to determine the next course of action. Expressing sympathy for those affected, he reaffirmed NDMA’s commitment to providing support during this difficult time.
Mansaray also emphasized the need for heightened fire prevention measures in homes, businesses, and public spaces. He urged residents and business owners to prioritize fire safety by properly handling flammable materials, installing fire extinguishers, and adhering to safety regulations.
“The NDMA remains committed to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to mitigate fire disasters in the country. We strongly encourage the public to prioritize fire safety to prevent similar incidents,” Mansaray stated.
Since the start of 2025, NDMA has recorded 55 fire incidents nationwide, including 16 in the Western Area, affecting schools, homes, and businesses. The increasing frequency of fire outbreaks underscores the urgent need for enhanced fire prevention efforts.
NDMA reassures affected victims of its continued support in disaster response and recovery. The agency also appeals to humanitarian organizations and philanthropists to assist in rebuilding affected businesses and livelihoods, ensuring that all aid is coordinated effectively through NDMA.
