Demolition in Kroobay: Many Families Displaced Amid Urban Renewal Efforts
A large demolition operation in Kroobay, Freetown, on August 9, 2024, left many families homeless after the FCC and police cleared makeshift shelters. Residents reported insufficient notice and a lack of support from authorities. Mayor Aki-Sawyer defended the action as a necessary step to mitigate flooding and other natural disasters in the area.
On August 9, 2024, the Freetown City Council (FCC), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, commenced a large-scale demolition of makeshift shelters in the Kroobay Community. This action left numerous families homeless, sparking outrage among the affected residents who reported feeling blindsided by the sudden enforcement.
Residents like Lamin Conteh, a father of two, expressed that the FCC had issued only a brief notice before the demolition, leaving them unprepared. Theresa Jones, another victim of the demolition, voiced her despair, stating that she and her three children were rendered homeless without prior proper notice.
Alimamy, a distraught resident, highlighted the challenges faced as he and his six family members confront homelessness during the rainy season. He mentioned receiving just a week’s notice to vacate the area, which raised concerns about their safety and well-being amidst ongoing climate challenges.
Freetown’s Mayor, Yvonne Aki-Sawyer, previously indicated that the demolition aimed to mitigate flooding and natural disasters in Freetown. In a government press briefing, she explained that the council, along with environmental ministries, planned to remove structures beyond a designated mangrove demarcation line to facilitate future environmental improvements, particularly through mangrove planting in Kroobay.
The demolition of makeshift shelters in Kroobay reflects ongoing challenges related to urban housing and disaster management in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The area is prone to flooding and other natural disasters, prompting authorities to clear homes that violate safety regulations. The FCC’s actions, although aimed at enhancing community resilience, have raised significant concerns about the short notice and assistance provided to displaced families, who now face immediate housing crises.
The demolition in Kroobay, executed by the FCC and police, has led to widespread displacement and significant distress among families. Despite the government’s intentions to address disaster risks, the lack of adequate notification and support for those affected presents severe challenges for the residents, emphasizing the need for better communication and assistance in future urban planning efforts.
Original Source: politicosl.com
