Windstorm claims life of fisherman in NBR

(Wednesday August 31st, 2016 Issue)

The North Bank Regional Disaster Management Committee recently paid a condolence visit to the Jah family of Nbantankiling in Upper Nuimi district, following the untimely demise of Tala Jah, a fisherman, at sea due to a windstorm.

The death of Jah, believed to be in his early 50s, came as a result of recent windstorm that struck his boat whilst at sea around Nbatankiling during the recent heavy rains.  

The deceased is survived by two wives and school-going children.

The committee also gathered information on 48 households from the communities of Medina Sedia, Nbantankiling, Albreda, Juffureh, Sika and Sittanunku, all in Upper Nuimi, that were hit by the recent windstorm resulting in damage of their roofs and displacement of persons to neighbourhoods.

Governor Lamin Queen Jammeh, who also doubles as the chairperson of the committee, expressed shock at the level of damage caused by the windstorm and the death of Tala Jah of Nbantankiling.

He reminded people to always take safety measures and precautions to avert such situations, especially at sea.

He challenged the committee to carry out assessment on the level of damages, saying it would help authorities in their planning to be able to make informed decisions.

Momodou BK Ceesay, Regional Disaster Management Coordinator, echoed similar sentiments and thanked community members for what he considered a humanitarian support to the affected households.

Ceesay called on the general public to adhere to weather forecasts and early warning signs before going to the sea.

He noted that some families have very slim chance for recovery, and challenged institutions, NGOs and philanthropists to come to the aid of the affected families.

The NBR disaster coordinator also called on the people to plant trees which serve as wind breaks; also stressing that parents should control their children during the rains.