In the serene landscapes of Kori Chiefdom in Moyamba District, Sierra Leone, a distressing saga unfolds as the community grapples with an escalating fire crisis that has plagued the region for the past five years. The ominous shadow of unknown fire sources has cast a relentless onslaught on plantation farms, ravaging valuable crops like palm fruits, pineapple, rice, cassava, and other essential cash crops. This relentless blaze has left farmers devastated, witnessing their hard work and livelihoods consumed by uncontrolled infernos.

The year 2024 alone has borne witness to four devastating fire incidents, exacerbating the ongoing crisis that has become an unfortunate hallmark of Kori Chiefdom. One of the recent tragedies unfolded in Fogbob village, where Chief Ernest Lissa's residence succumbed to flames from a known source in December. The aftermath of this incident not only obliterated the chief's home but also left five households in ruins, erasing two decades of collective effort.

The plight extended to Waima Village, where Martha Josiah's entire dwelling was reduced to ashes, rendering three households homeless in an instant—a catastrophic loss for the 15 individuals affected. Furthermore, the revered businessman and farmer, Mr. Mohamed Alhaji Kamara, experienced a substantial setback when his four-acre pineapple farm in Kawella fell victim to the destructive flames on December 10th, 2024. This incident underscored the severe consequences of recurrent fire disasters, consuming years of hard work and investment in an unforgiving blaze.

Local authorities now find themselves under mounting pressure to take immediate and comprehensive action, including the implementation of stringent bylaws, to curb the perpetual fire disasters afflicting Kori Chiefdom. The affected victims, reeling from the devastating incidents, urgently appeal for help and support in the face of adversity. The implementation of preventive measures and the establishment of a robust fire response system are deemed crucial to safeguarding the livelihoods and properties of community members.

As the residents of Kori Chiefdom navigate the aftermath of these fire disasters, there is a collective hope that swift and decisive action will be taken to prevent further loss and devastation in the future. The urgent call for assistance from the victims underscores the pressing need for a coordinated effort by local authorities, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to effectively address this growing crisis. The resilience of the community in the face of adversity and the call for assistance paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by Kori Chiefdom and the imperative for a united and proactive response to safeguard the region from the ravages of uncontrolled fires.