AYV News, January 22, 2026
The management of Bankhi-Solofaray FM 93.7, a community radio station in Kukuna town, Bramaia chiefdom, Kambiadistrict, have appealed for urgent support from the authorities and philanthropists to come to their aid after a bushfire left the entire station completely destroyed.
The fire occurred on the evening of Friday, January 9, 2026, rapidly spreading from nearby bushes and completely consuming the station’s wooden structure.
Station Manager Abu Bakarr Conteh described the incident as devastating, noting that all studio equipment, archives, and facilities were lost, silencing a station that had served the community for over a year. Known as the “Voice of Bramaia,” the station played a crucial role in broadcasting local news, educational programmes, cultural content, and emergency alerts in an area with limited access to information.
Community members expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the station as a unifying platform and an essential communication lifeline. Residents and young people highlighted its importance in education, creativity, and community engagement.
Despite the destruction, station management remains hopeful and has appealed to government institutions, NGOs, the diaspora, and well-wishers for support to rebuild and restore the station. The incident has also renewed calls for improved fire safety measures and more resilient, modern broadcasting infrastructure within Sierra Leone’s media sector.
