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National Disaster Management Agency - Sierra Leone, 64 Sir Samuel Lewis Road, Aberdeen, Freetown (2026)

28/05/2026

NDMA Deputy Director General Represents Sierra Leone at African Early Warning Talks in Mozambique

Freetown, Thursday, 28 May 2026 - The Deputy Director General of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Sulaiman B. Sowa, represented Sierra Leone at the Africa Multi-Hazard Early Warning System and Early Action (AMHEWAS) Technical Working Group meeting held in Mozambique from May 25 to 27, 2026.

The high-level continental meeting, organized by the African Union Commission (AUC), brought together disaster risk reduction experts, meteorological agencies, humanitarian actors, and policymakers from across Africa to strengthen coordinated multi-hazard early warning systems and improve anticipatory disaster response mechanisms on the continent.

AMHEWAS is a flagship African Union initiative established to facilitate interoperable and people-centered multi-hazard early warning systems across all 55 African Union Member States. The programme aligns closely with the United Nations’ global “Early Warnings for All” initiative aimed at ensuring every person on earth is protected by life-saving early warning systems by 2027.

During the Technical Working Group session, DDG Sowa presented on Sierra Leone’s national progress on early warning systems, including ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness, risk monitoring and community-based response mechanisms.

His presentation also highlighted Sierra Leone’s vulnerability profile as a climate-sensitive nation increasingly exposed to flooding, landslides, coastal erosion, urban fires, and extreme weather events. The country, through the NDMA continues to invest in improving risk communication and institutional coordination following lessons learned from previous disasters, including the devastating 2017 mudslide tragedy.

DDG Sowa also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in disaster preparedness. “Disasters do not respect borders, and therefore Africa’s response systems must be interconnected, proactive, and people-centered. Sierra Leone’s participation in the AMHEWAS Technical Working Group demonstrates our commitment to building stronger and smarter early warning systems capable of protecting lives and livelihoods,” he said.

The NDMA Deputy Director General was also selected as one of the panelists for a strategic discussion on “Early Warning Systems in Urban Settings,” where experts examined the growing risks associated with rapid urbanization, informal settlements, population density, and climate-related hazards in African cities.

The panel discussion explored innovative approaches to urban resilience, including the use of digital technologies, community engagement, real-time hazard monitoring, and integrated emergency communication systems.

“This platform offers Sierra Leone a unique opportunity to learn from best practices across the continent, especially in strengthening urban early warning systems, improving coordination among institutions, and expanding last-mile communication to vulnerable communities,” he stated.

Delegates were taken on technical visits to operational situation rooms in Mozambique to gain firsthand experience in how real-time hazard monitoring, forecasting, emergency coordination, and anticipatory action systems are managed.

The AMHEWAS programme has already supported the establishment of continental and regional situation rooms in Addis Ababa, Abuja, Douala, Nacala, and other strategic locations to enhance disaster preparedness and response coordination across Africa.

The representation is expected to significantly strengthen NDMA’s technical capacity, improve interoperability with regional systems, and enhance access to emerging early warning technologies.

The Technical Working Group meeting concluded with strategic recommendations aimed at implementing effective multi-hazard early warning and early action systems throughout Africa.

For More Enquiries:
Directorate of Communications
Toll-free line: 1199 (all networks)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ndma.gov.sl

27/05/2026

Message from the Director General of the National Disaster Management Agency, John Vandy Rogers, on the Occasion of Eid ul-Adha.

26/05/2026

NDMA, FCC, SLP, RSLAF, SLRA & Others Respond to Five-Storey Building Collapse on Kissy Road

Kissy Road, East End, Freetown, Tuesday, May 26, 2026 - The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) received an alert in the early hours of Tuesday morning regarding the collapse of a five-storey building under construction at 113A Kissy Road in Freetown. The incident partially destroyed two nearby structures and prompted a swift multi-agency emergency response led by the NDMA.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:00am and the affected area, near Starco Cinema has been temporarily closed. The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Freetown City Council (FCC), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), the Ministry of Works and Public Assets, the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society, and other partners arrived at the scene early this morning following the collapse and have since been engaged in a coordinated response operation.

Preliminary assessments conducted by the NDMA’s assessment officers indicate that no deaths have been recorded, and there is currently no reasonable suspicion that anyone remains trapped beneath the rubble.

Findings from the ongoing investigation also suggest that the collapse resulted from the use of substandard building materials and poor construction errors by the contractor.

Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the owner of the collapsed building is believed to reside in the United States, while efforts to contact his relatives in Sierra Leone and the contractor responsible for the construction have so far been unsuccessful.

Speaking on the incident, Director General of the NDMA, John Vandy Rogers, said the agency remains committed to ensuring public safety while investigations continue.

“The preliminary assessment points to serious concerns regarding construction standards and engineering compliance. We are grateful that no lives have been lost in this unfortunate incident. The NDMA, together with our partners, is fully engaged in ensuring the area is secured, the rubble cleared, and investigations thoroughly conducted to establish accountability,” DG Rogers stated.

Mayor of the Freetown City Council, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, emphasized the need for strict adherence to building regulations and stronger enforcement measures across the capital.

“This incident is a painful reminder of the dangers posed by unsafe construction practices. The safety of residents must always come first, and we will continue working closely with the relevant authorities to strengthen compliance with approved building standards and protect our communities,” the Mayor said.

The National Disaster Management Agency and the Sierra Leone Roads Authority are currently coordinating the deployment of an excavator to clear debris from the site and reopen Kissy Road to vehicular traffic.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy has removed exposed electrical cables and damaged utility poles to ensure public safety and help stabilize the power supply in the affected area.

The National Disaster Management Agency will continue its investigations into the collapse and assures the public that further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.

For More Enquiries:
Directorate of Communications
Toll-free line: 1199 (all networks)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ndma.gov.sl

25/05/2026

Video News:

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) held its first General Staff Meeting under the new leadership headed by Director General John Vandy Rogers on 14th May 2026, following their appointment in November 2025. The meeting provided an important opportunity for staff engagement, reflection on institutional priorities, and a renewed commitment by staff members to advancing the Agency’s mandate and strengthening national resilience.

21/05/2026

NDMA Engages Turkish Ambassador Over Kono Windstorm Disaster

Turkish Embassy, Aberdeen, Freetown, Thursday, May 21 2026 – The Director General of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), John Vandy Rogers, together with a cross-section of senior staff of the agency, paid a courtesy visit to the Turkish Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Yusuf Burak Rende, at the Turkish Embassy office located at Dream Atlantic Garden Villas, 54 Lumley Beach Road, Aberdeen, Freetown.

The NDMA delegation included Deputy Director General, Sulaiman B. Sowa; Director of Communication, Mohamed L. Bah; Director of Human Resources and Administration, Paul Thomas; and Senior Disaster Officer, Nyandavo Samuka.

The purpose of the visit was to engage the ambassador and solicit urgent support following the devastating windstorm in Gandorhun Town and surrounding communities in Mongor Section, Gbane Chiefdom, Kono District, which destroyed approximately 149 dwelling houses, displaced over 900 people, injured several residents, and severely affected educational facilities, public infrastructure, and livelihoods.

Introducing the delegation, Director of Communication Mohamed L. Bah highlighted the agency’s continued commitment to responding swiftly to disasters affecting vulnerable communities across the country.

Director General John Vandy Rogers briefed Ambassador Rende and embassy officials on the extent of the destruction caused by the windstorm and the urgent humanitarian needs of the affected population.

“We are here today to strengthen collaboration and appeal for support for our brothers and sisters in Kono who have been severely affected by this unfortunate disaster. More than 900 people have been displaced, families have lost their homes, and there is an urgent need for shelter, food supplies, and other relief assistance. We appreciate the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and Türkiye and believe this partnership can greatly help alleviate the suffering of the victims.” DG Rogers said.

DG Rogers also commended the Turkish Government and humanitarian partners for their continued support to Sierra Leone in times of need.

In his remarks, NDMA’s Deputy Director General, Sulaiman B. Sowa emphasized the importance of international cooperation in disaster response efforts.

“Partnerships like these are critical in ensuring timely humanitarian assistance reaches affected communities,” DDG Sowa stated.
Responding, Ambassador Yusuf Burak Rende warmly welcomed the NDMA team and reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development and humanitarian efforts.

“Türkiye will continue to stand with Sierra Leone, especially during challenging moments such as this. We appreciate the tremendous work being done by the NDMA under the leadership of Director General John Vandy Rogers in responding to disasters and protecting vulnerable communities.” ” Ambassador Rende said.

The ambassador further disclosed that the Turkish Embassy, together with the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), would meet to explore possible interventions with a view to supporting the affected victims in Kono.

“We will engage TİKA and examine ways in which we can contribute meaningfully to support the victims of the windstorm disaster,” he added.

Deputy Director General Sulaiman B. Sowa concluded the engagement by assuring the ambassador of the NDMA’s commitment to working closely with the Turkish Embassy on the necessary modalities to ensure a prompt humanitarian response to the windstorm victims in Kono.

For More Enquiries:
Directorate of Communications
Toll-free line: 1199 (all networks)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ndma.gov.sl

19/05/2026

NDMA Conducts Assessment at FAWE Girls School Following Destructive Windstorm in Grafton

Grafton, Western Rural District, Freetown, 19 May 2026 - Following a reported windstorm incident at FAWE Girls Junior Secondary School in Grafton, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has conducted an assessment at the school after sections of its roof were ripped off, disrupting learning activities.

The incident occurred around 11:00pm on Monday, 18 May 2026, when strong winds caused extensive damage to eight rooms within the school compound. The affected structures include six classrooms, the staff room, and the principal’s office, leaving the buildings exposed and unsafe for academic activities.

The assessment team was led by NDMA’s Disaster Officer, Sheku Mansaray, who visited the school to evaluate the extent of the damage and engage the administration on urgent needs and possible interventions. Speaking during the visit, Sheku Mansaray expressed sympathy to the school authorities and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting public facilities affected by disasters.

“This assessment is intended to determine the level of destruction caused by the windstorm and identify immediate needs for appropriate action. The safety and continuity of education for these young girls remain a priority, and NDMA will collaborate with relevant stakeholders and partners to ensure timely support,” he stated.

Principal of the school, Madam Ramatu Kamara, described the incident as a serious setback, noting that the damage has created uncertainty among both staff and pupils. She commended NDMA for its swift response and assessment visit.

“We are grateful to NDMA for responding promptly to assess the situation. The damage is severe, and with more than 350 girls affected, normal learning activities have been greatly disrupted. We hope urgent support will be provided to restore a safe and conducive learning environment for both students and staff.” Madam Kamara said.

The NDMA hereby urges the public to adopt precautionary measures during this period of strong windstorms and in preparation for the peak rainy season in July, August, and September, when heavy rainfall is expected across the country. The Agency will continue to implement its flood mitigation strategies to minimize risks and strengthen disaster preparedness nationwide.

For More Enquiries:
Directorate of Communications
Toll-free line: 1199 (all networks)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ndma.gov.sl

15/05/2026

New NDMA Leadership Holds First General Staff Meeting, Promises Improved Welfare and Efficient Service Delivery

NDMA Headquarters, Aberdeen, Freetown, May 15, 2026 - The new leadership of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), headed by Director General John Vandy Rogers, on Thursday May 14 convened its first General Staff Meeting to engage staff across the institution, updating them on the Agency’s progress, and listening to concerns affecting operations and staff welfare.

The meeting, held at the NDMA conference room, brought together senior management and staff from regional offices nationwide, including drivers and cleaners.

Welcoming staff members, Director of Human Resources and Administration, Mr. Paul Thomas, explained that the meeting is the first general staff meeting under the new leadership and was intended to provide updates on the gains and strides made by the Agency while creating an opportunity for staff to openly discuss challenges requiring management’s attention.

Deputy Director of Human Resources and Administration, Mrs. Martha Lahai, who moderated the meeting, emphasized the importance of regular staff meetings in promoting institutional growth and improving staff welfare. She encouraged participants to maintain professionalism, openness, and constructive dialogue throughout the discussions.

Introducing the Director General, Deputy Director General Sulaiman B. Sowa welcomed staff and highlighted what he described as significant progress made by the new administration in improving staff welfare, promoting gender inclusion, and strengthening partnerships to advance the Agency’s mandate.

“An institution can only succeed when its people are motivated, respected, and fully involved in the process. We are committed to creating an enabling environment where professionalism, inclusiveness, gender equality, and teamwork will continue to thrive,” he stated.

Addressing staff members, Director General Rogers outlined several achievements recorded during his first 100 days in office. According to him, the Agency has made notable progress in institutional restructuring, administrative reforms, staff capacity building, and strategic collaboration with national and international stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations.

“In these first 100 days, our focus has been on strengthening the internal systems of NDMA, improving coordination mechanisms, and positioning the Agency for greater efficiency and national impact,” DG Rogers said. “Our vision is to build a responsive and resilient institution that prioritizes both staff welfare and effective service delivery.”

The Director General further noted that although the Agency had developed several operational policies since its establishment, there was a pressing need for a comprehensive Human Resources Manual to regulate staff conduct and enhance employee welfare in line with international best practices.

To address this gap, he said management tasked a team of senior officials with developing a Human Resources Management Manual for the institution. The document was officially launched during the meeting which DG Rogers described as a landmark policy framework that would promote fairness, accountability, professionalism, and improved staff management within the Agency.

Director of Finance, Morie Bassie Karteh, also briefed staff on the Agency’s finances, including challenges relating to budgetary allocations and operational costs. Despite the constraints, he assured staff that management remains committed to providing the necessary resources and guidance to enhance operations nationwide.

Director Karteh also urged finance officers in the regions to exercise prudence in the administration of allocated resources and provided guidance on effective financial reporting and liquidation procedures.

The Director of Communications, Mohamed L. Bah, and the Director of Relief and Response, Sinneh Mansaray, also addressed staff on the importance of ethics, professionalism, and effective communication in disaster management operations. They emphasized the need for staff to uphold high professional standards while responding to emergencies and engaging affected communities. Both directors highlighted the critical role of timely, accurate, and responsible communication in promoting public trust and ensuring best practices in their operations.

The meeting featured an interactive question-and-answer session during which staff members raised concerns about operational challenges in the field, logistics, and working conditions, particularly in the provinces. Staff also sought clarification on several institutional and administrative matters while making recommendations directly to management.

The leadership and members of senior management responded with assurances of continued reforms and improved working conditions, especially for staff serving in regional offices, as part of efforts to strengthen institutional performance and staff morale.

Several junior staff members expressed appreciation to the new leadership for creating an inclusive platform that allowed them to freely voice their concerns. They also pledged their continued commitment toward the growth and development of the Agency.

For More Enquiries:
Directorate of Communications
Toll-free line: 1199 (all networks)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ndma.gov.sl

12/05/2026

NDMA Concludes Flood Mitigation Interventions in Makeni, Bo & Kenema Districts With Support From GOAL SL Ahead of Rainy Season

Freetown, April 12, 2026 - The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) on the 7th, 8th, and 9th of May 2026 concluded flood mitigation and disaster preparedness interventions in Makeni, Bo, and Kenema as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce the impact of flooding during the upcoming rainy season, with support from GOAL SL.

The intervention is part of the Agency’s annual flood mitigation strategy aimed at identifying flood-prone communities and implementing preventive measures to safeguard lives, property, and livelihoods during the peak of the rains.

In Makeni City, the mitigation exercise was undertaken at a major waterway along Mabanta-Lunsar Road by the Fisheries area. The team was spearheaded by the Director of Risk Reduction and Preparedness, Maada Salia, alongside the Director of Regions, Degauleh Juana, Deputy Director of Risk Reduction and Preparedness, Gerald King, Northern Regional Coordinator, Mamadie Lansana Kondeh, and the regional team.

Before commencing the cleaning exercises in Makeni, Bo, and Kenema, the teams engaged local stakeholders, community leaders, and youth groups on the purpose of their visit. The engagement also served as an opportunity to disseminate multi-hazard awareness messages, including effective waste management practices and the need to avoid activities that pose risks to lives and the environment.

Speaking during the commencement of the exercise in Makeni, Director Maada Salia said the Agency remains committed to proactive disaster management rather than reactive interventions.

“Flood mitigation is a collective responsibility. Our focus is to work closely with communities to reduce risks before disasters occur. Preventive action remains the most effective way to protect lives and property,” he said.

Meanwhile, another NDMA team was in Bo City and conducted a major cleaning exercise to remove waste and debris obstructing water channels at the Shelmingo Roundabout, an area that experiences recurrent flooding every year due to clogged waterways.

The team was led by the Chief of Operations, Kai Banya, the Director of Partnerships, Soko Kai-Samba, with strong support from the Southern Regional team.

Addressing community leaders and residents in Bo, Chief of Operations Kai Banya emphasized the importance of collective action in reducing flood risks and protecting vulnerable communities.

“We cannot prevent disasters alone as an institution. Communities must take ownership of their environment by keeping drainages clear and supporting mitigation efforts that will help save lives and property,” he said.

NDMA’s Director of Partnerships, Soko Kai-Samba, while addressing stakeholders in Bo and Kenema, emphasized the importance of community participation in disaster prevention efforts.

“Disaster risk reduction cannot succeed without the active involvement of communities. We encourage residents to maintain clean surroundings and avoid indiscriminate dumping of waste into drainages,” she stated.

After Bo, the Southern Region team proceeded to Kenema City, where they worked with the NDMA Eastern Region team to clean the Lambayama waterway along the Nyandeyama and Kpetema communities.

In Freetown, the Directorate of Communication is set to commence an open-space awareness campaign targeting communities across the western and eastern parts of the capital. The campaign will disseminate multi-hazard awareness messages focused on flooding, landslides, fire safety, and other disaster risks. Major waterways in Freetown, including Samba Gutter and clogged drainages along Lumley, have also been identified for cleaning.

Director General of the NDMA, John Vandy Rogers, commended the regional teams and GOAL SL for their continued commitment to disaster preparedness efforts across the country.

“As we approach the peak of the rainy season, our focus remains on prevention, preparedness, and community engagement. We urge citizens to work closely with the Agency in promoting safer communities and reducing disaster risks nationwide. I also thank GOAL SL for their continued support in strengthening our disaster management operations,” he said.

For More Enquiries:
Directorate of Communications
Toll-free line: 1199 (all networks)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ndma.gov.sl

09/05/2026

Every year, the NDMA implements its Flood Mitigation Strategy in targeted communities to enhance preparedness and reduce the impact of flooding ahead of the peak rainy season in July, August, and September.

This year, the Agency has carried out interventions in communities across the provinces. In Bo City, NDMA cleared a major waterway at Shellmingo that had been heavily blocked by debris and waste. In Makeni City, the team cleaned a major bridge along the Mabanta - Lunsar Road near the Fisheries area. The bridge had been severely clogged, posing a significant flood risk during the rainy season.

These interventions are part of NDMA’s continued commitment to protecting lives, property, and communities from disaster risks.

01/05/2026

NDMA Leads Response as Inferno Ravages Disabled Settlement on Pademba Road, Child Killed and Dozens Relocated

Approved School Juvenile Home, East End, Freetown, May 1 2026 - The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has responded swiftly to a devastating fire that tore through the settlement of physically challenged persons on Pademba Road in Freetown in the early hours of Friday morning. The incident caused widespread destruction, claimed the life of one child, and left dozens of families displaced.

The blaze, which reportedly started around 2:00am engulfed the large makeshift settlement that is home to dozens of disabled residents and their families. An initial assessment by the NDMA revealed that 46 disabled households and 14 able-bodied families were affected, with homes, personal belongings, and livelihoods completely destroyed. The total population affected is 256.

Tragically, the incident claimed the life of 8-year-old Salaymatu Bangura. Another victim, Kadiatu Kamara, sustained burn injuries to her back and is currently receiving medical attention.

In a swift and coordinated response, the NDMA, led by its Director General John Vandy Rogers, arrived at the scene alongside senior government officials and humanitarian partners. Among those present were the Minister of Social Welfare and Children’s Affairs, Melrose Kaminty; the Inspector General of Police; the Chief of Defence Staff of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF); and representatives from the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society and Catholic Relief Services.

With support from the RSLAF and the Ministry of Social Welfare and Children’s Affairs, the response team immediately facilitated the relocation of victims to temporary accommodation at the Approved School Juvenile Home.

Addressing the affected families, Mr. Rogers expressed deep sympathy and reassured them of NDMA’s continued support. “We share in your pain and loss. No family should endure such tragedy alone, and we are committed to standing with you every step of the way as you rebuild your lives,” he said.

Supporting the response efforts, NDMA Director of Relief and Response, Sinneh Mansaray, noted that the agency remains fully engaged in delivering immediate assistance and coordinating further interventions.

While addressing the victims, Minister Kaminty emphasized her ministry’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations, stating that the dignity and well-being of the affected persons remain a top priority. “Our duty is to protect and support you in moments like this. We will continue working to ensure that every affected individual is cared for and helped to recover from this devastating fire incident,” she said.

She also revealed that the ministry is currently constructing 56 permanent housing units for persons with disabilities who had been residing on Pademba Road. The project is expected to be completed in June 2026 and will provide a permanent residence for them.

The Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, also visited the affected victims at the Approved School Juvenile Home. He conveyed the government’s condolences and stressed the importance of strengthening protections for vulnerable groups. He engaged with many of the victims, including the family that lost their daughter, offering his sympathies.

Dr. Sengeh listened attentively to their concerns and pledged to provide a “kekeh” (tricycle) to serve as a means of transport for the most vulnerable among them, particularly when attending programs. He concluded by assuring them that he would work with relevant stakeholders to mobilize additional support.

As part of its immediate humanitarian response, the NDMA distributed essential relief items, including bags of rice, mattresses, and other supplies. The Sierra Leone Correctional Service also contributed food items to support the victims.

The chairman representing the affected persons with disabilities, Yayah Sheku Sheriff, expressed appreciation for the rapid intervention and thanked the government and its partners for their support.

Director General Rogers reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that no victim is left behind, pledging continued collaboration with relevant ministries, security forces, and humanitarian partners to provide sustained assistance as affected families begin rebuilding their lives.

For More Enquiries:
Directorate of Communications
Toll-free line: 1199 (all networks)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ndma.gov.sl

National Disaster Management Agency - Sierra Leone

28/05/2026

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