AYV News, August 7, 2026
Residents of Makeni City are sounding the alarm over the increasing risk of flooding, warning that inadequate drainage systems and unregulated construction in vulnerable areas could trigger another major disaster similar to last year’s floods.
The heavy rains recorded during the previous rainy season caused widespread destruction across several communities, with floodwaters invading homes, shops, and public spaces, leaving many families with significant property losses running into millions of leones.
As rainfall continues this year, residents in flood-prone communities including Lower John Street, MolalaRoad, Magburaka Road, Agriculture Road, Kojo Street, Teko Road, Milton Street, Rogbaneh Road, and Savage Square say they are living in fear of a repeat of the devastation.
Many residents have attributed the recurring floods to blocked waterways, poor drainage infrastructure, and the expansion of settlements into swamps and other natural water channels.
A resident of Lower John Street, Foday Koroma, said the situation has created constant uncertainty for families living in affected communities.
“Whenever the clouds become dark and heavy rains begin, we start worrying about what might happen. We are afraid of losing our homes, properties, and the little businesses that support our families,” he said.
Civil society activists have also raised concerns over the long-term impact of poor urban planning, noting that continued development in environmentally sensitive areas is increasing the city’s exposure to flooding.
They are calling on relevant authorities to prioritize drainage rehabilitation, enforce proper land-use planning, protect wetlands, and conduct assessments of communities located in high-risk zones.
The memories of last year’s flooding remain painful for many families, some of whom are still recovering from damaged homes, destroyed businesses, and financial setbacks caused by the disaster.
Residents are now appealing to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), Makeni City Council, humanitarian organizations, and development partners to implement preventive measures before the situation worsens.
With climate change, environmental degradation, and rapid urban growth contributing to increased flood risks, residents warn that urgent intervention is needed to prevent another crisis during the peak of the rainy season.
