ChildFund Sierra Leone provided urgent food relief to over 150 flood victims in Daru Town, Kailahun District, following devastating floods. The aid, distributed in collaboration with local partner N’domakeh Federation on September 20, 2024, included 25 kg bags of rice and Procter & Gamble (P&G) water purifiers.

Affected persons supported with dry rations (in the form of 50 KG of rice)
Affected persons supported with dry rations (in the form of 50 KG of rice)
Elderly supported with dry rations to cope with the crises put forward by the flood
Elderly supported with dry rations to cope with the crises put forward by the flood

“Within an hour of the flooding, we dispatched a team to assess the damage,” said Martha Koroma, Acting Program Manager of N’domakeh Federation. “We found more than 200 people affected, including 147 children enrolled in our programs.” She explained that many homes—built with mud—were particularly vulnerable and suffered extensive damage.

Before registering affected households, the team consulted with community elders to gain a full understanding of the situation and ensure fair and accurate aid distribution.

Victor Kamara, Country Director of ChildFund Sierra Leone, extended his sympathy to those impacted, particularly children. “We are working closely with the government, our local partner, and community stakeholders to find meaningful ways to support and safeguard children’s well-being,” he said.

In response to health risks posed by the flooding of local wells, ChildFund also distributed P&G water purifiers. Each household in Sannoh Town received 30 sachets—enough to provide clean drinking water for a month.

“We are thankful to N’domakeh and ChildFund for giving us water purifiers. They’re helping make our water safe,” said Musu Kemoh, a Sannoh Town resident. Ruth Kamara, a mother of two, added, “The rice and water purifier show us that we are not forgotten.”

The Moa River, which also flooded in 2009 and 2019, surged with unprecedented force this year, damaging homes and pathways. “The strong currents swept away my kitchen and toilet,” shared Aminata Eric, Women’s Leader in Daru Town.

Community elders blame the disaster on unusually heavy rainfall in September. “We never expected this much rain at this time of year,” said one elder, tapping his walking stick in the water around him.

Earlier this year, Sierra Leone’s Meteorological Agency warned of potential floods during the rainy season, which spans May to October, urging residents—especially in flood-prone areas like Freetown—to remain vigilant.

Children are often the most vulnerable in emergencies, facing risks such as injury, family separation, and loss of education—yet too often, they are the last to receive help.

ChildFund prioritizes children’s needs during crises, ensuring they receive food, clean water, and psychosocial support. In Kailahun, the organization continues to work with N’domakeh Federation and local communities to assess and meet ongoing needs as recovery efforts progress.