Liberia: Flood Victims Express Anger Over Abandonment and Aid Mismanagement

Liberia’s flood victims in River Cess County feel abandoned six months after receiving no governmental support. Allegations of aid mismanagement have surfaced, with local officials accused of selling relief supplies. Experts stress the need for greater climate preparedness, as flooding is projected to worsen due to climate change, risking economic stability and public safety.

In Liberia, nearly six months following devastating floods that affected River Cess County, community members contend that they have been abandoned by the government. The floods, exacerbated by rising waters from the Cestos and Teekpor Rivers, claimed 27 homes and even resulted in a fatality, yet relief promised by officials has yet to arrive. The atmosphere is one of frustration, particularly for residents like 72-year-old Mohammed Keita, who expressed disappointment with governmental inaction by stating that there has been no response or acknowledgment from authorities regarding their situation.

Senator Bill Twehway previously informed the public about 450 bags of rice and other aid promised by Liberia’s Disaster Agency, which was purportedly on its way to the affected areas. However, residents accuse local agents of the Disaster Agency of diverting the aid, alleging that items were sold in Nimba Junction and Oldpa Village prior to reaching the intended recipients. Town chief Mahyeadeh Zar reported witnessing aid being offloaded and suggests it was profiteered by the officials meant to implement aid relief.

Ansu Dulleh, the head of Liberia’s Disaster Management Agency, stated that an investigation into the allegations is underway, indicating that measures will be taken to resolve the issue. Meanwhile, the primary support received has come from the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission, which provided minimal cash assistance to struggling households, leaving them in dire need of food and supplies as another rainy season approaches.

Residents describe harsh living conditions exacerbated by the floods, with many homes completely ruined and personal belongings lost. For instance, Keita mentioned losing his home and livelihood, and currently depends on burning charcoal for income. His daughter, having been out of school due to economic hardship, recently returned to school thanks to his meager earnings from selling charcoal and prepared food.

Climate change continues to pose dire threats, with experts warning that the government must take significant action to better prepare for the worsening rainy seasons. Floods have already displaced over 100,000 individuals in 2024 alone, particularly affecting River Cess County. Experts emphasize the need for immediate reforms, as inadequate land-use regulations and deforestation hinder the environment’s natural abilities to manage water absorption. Failure to address these issues could lead to severe economic repercussions, with projections noting potential shrinkage of Liberia’s economy and increased poverty.

Sampson Williams, an environmentalist, critiques the government’s negligence in enforcing regulations that would mitigate climate change impacts. He states that despite the existence of a designated Disaster Management Agency, instances of flooding continue unchecked across the country, furthering public concern and allegations of corruption. These issues fuel patterns reminiscent of the tensions that led to Liberia’s past civil conflict.

Amid the ongoing crises, individuals express feeling neglected. Princess Nanna, a shop owner affected by the floods, recounts the loss of her means to support her children and the apprehension surrounding potentially contaminated drinking water from a community well. Her sentiments of betrayal reflect a broader community disdain towards the government’s inadequate response.

As the nation grapples with these challenges, calls for government accountability grow louder. Jerome Nyenka, a professor, advocates for public education initiatives aimed at fostering awareness around environmental preservation and flood management. A collective demand from residents like Keita highlights a need for genuine commitment from the government rather than empty promises in alleviating their plight.

In summary, the residents of River Cess County in Liberia, nearly six months post-flooding, continue to express a profound sense of abandonment by their government. Promises of aid remain unfulfilled, with allegations of mismanagement and corruption surfacing amidst the struggles for survival. The urgency for effective climate change adaptation and governmental accountability is underscored by experts who warn of increasing poverty and tensions. The situation calls for decisive action to support and protect vulnerable communities.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com