Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has paid a one-way visit to Ghana to commiserate with the people over the recent devastating floods in Accra.
“It is always a pleasure to come to my second home, a sister nation with which Sierra Leone shares deep historical ties, enduring friendship and a common commitment to peace, stability and prosperity in our region,” he stated.
“I am here today first and foremost to convey, on behalf of the government and people of Sierra Leone, our heartfelt condolences and unwavering solidarity with the government and people of Ghana following the recent devastating floods that have claimed lives and caused widespread destruction.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, those who have been injured, and all those whose homes, businesses and livelihoods have been affected.”
The floods on Monday, June 29 wreaked havoc across the capital city and adjoining cities, leading to loss of lives and property.
But since the incident occurred efforts have been channeled into rebuilding destroyed facilities with the Ghana Armed Forces and other emergency services agencies leading these.
“I also wish to commend your excellency for your leadership during this difficult period and to pay tribute to the emergency services, security personnel, healthcare workers, volunteers, faith-based organizations and ordinary citizens whose dedication and compassion have brought comfort and hope to those in need,” the current chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) said.
He underscored the mutual solidarity either countries offers the other on moments like this.
“The enduring spirit of solidarity is one of the defining strengths of the relationship between our two countries.”
President Maada Bio pointed out that the disaster should be a reminder of the shared vulnerabilities of African nations.
“Across West Africa, including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and many other countries, we are witnessing increasingly frequent floods and landslides driven by the growing impact of climate change.
“These challenges are often compounded by rapid urbanization, unsafe construction, settlements in flood-prone areas, inadequate drainage infrastructure, and weak enforcement of planning and environmental regulations.”
He, therefore, charged colleague leaders to “strengthen disaster preparedness, invest in resilient infrastructure, improve urban planning, protect our environment and deepen regional cooperation so that our countries are better equipped to withstand these increasingly complex challenges”.
“This is entirely consistent with our collective aspirations for a more resilient, sustainable and prosperous West Africa.”
He eexpressed solidarity with the government and people of the Republic of Ghana.
“In West Africa, when one nation suffers, we all feel the pain, and that is why I am here today.
“Today, I have come not only as a fellow president but as a brother from Sierra Leone, and as Chair of the ECOWAS Authority, to say to the people of Ghana: you are not alone.
“Your sorrow is ours, and together we will overcome these challenges.”