The heavy downpour of torrential rain flooded at Pateh Sam village in the Niamina East, Central River Region on Tuesday, September 11, 2007, has killed a young girl and rendered many homeless.

According to the Alkalo of the Village, Alhajie Abdou Begay Secka, the heavy downpour started at around 8:00pm and continued until 1am.  “The flood in the village resulted to the collapse of many residential houses leaving the occupants homeless”, he said.

Alkalo Secka said in the compound of one Mat Mbye, a six year old girl died instantly when a mud block house collapsed on her.  In the same house, one Fatou Ceesay, a lady sustained multiple injuries on her leg, while another inhabitant Rohey Mbye escaped unhurt. He noted that eight houses collapsed and ten houses are seriously at risk and not suitable for dwelling.

He further pointed out that about forty bags of coos and thirty-eight bags of rice were lost in the flood. Mr Secka explained that sixteen small ruminants, four goats and twelve sheep perished in the flood.

The Deputy-Governor, Momodou Katim Touray, who visited the scene on behalf of the Governor of CRR expressed condolence to the family of the bereaved child and to the displaced victims.  He assured them that the regional disaster committee in collaboration with the national disaster, NGO’s and donor agencies will do everything possible to alleviate the hardship of the victims.

He called on all philanthropists, organisations, NGO’s and individuals to assist in providing relief aid to the victims.

Mat Mbye, one of the victims, thanked the office of the Governor of CRR for responding quickly during the incident.  He further thanked the villagers for rescuing them and providing them with accommodation.