Africa-Press – Gambia. A fire outbreak on Saturday destroyed household property and food items belonging to the family of Saikou Jaiteh in Njaba Kunda village, Central Badibou District, North Bank Region.
The incident occurred shortly after 14:00 hours following afternoon prayers and lasted for about two hours. The fire was reportedly caused by an electrical short circuit.
The blaze destroyed foodstuffs, learning materials, television sets, two laptops, four mobile phones and over D25,000 in cash. Ten bags of paddy rice and groundnut seeds were also burnt.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, Saikou Jaiteh, head of the 15-member household, described the incident as shocking and devastating. He appealed to the National Disaster Management Agency, the Gambia Red Cross Society and other humanitarian organisations for urgent assistance.
He confirmed that no casualties or injuries were recorded and thanked residents of Njaba Kunda for their swift response.
Sulayman Jaiteh, a member of the affected family, said the fire destroyed all personal belongings, including identity cards, voters’ cards and birth certificates. He thanked community members for rescuing three-month-old twins during the incident and called for humanitarian support.
Officials of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service in Farafenni responded to the scene and helped contain the fire. The family also expressed appreciation to the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) for its support.
Deputy Governor Dembo Samateh visited the family to express solidarity and assured them of the government’s commitment to provide assistance. He commended the community for mobilising local support.
Alagie B. Jaiteh, Ward Councillor of Njaba Kunda Ward, called on individuals, institutions and organisations to support the affected family, noting that the incident occurred during the Muslim fasting period.
