By: Eric Kanneh
MANAGORDUAH, GOLA KONNEH DISTRICT – A devastating incident has struck the town of Managorduah in Gola Konneh District, Grand Cape Mount County, as a local farmer lost his life while burning his family farm on Monday afternoon.
The deceased, identified as Blama Gondah, also known as NKor Blama, was a long-time resident of Managorduah and a devoted Muslim who was fasting at the time of the incident. The tragedy occurred at Jen-Jen Field, along the Managorduah-Helyeah Corridor, sending shockwaves through the community.
According to eyewitness Pa Jusu Kromah, the fire started at approximately 1:30 PM when four individuals, including the deceased, set out to clear the farmland. The group split into two, with two men handling the upper section of the farm while the others worked on the lower portion. It remains unclear how Blama became trapped in the blaze.
Mr. Kromah expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing that this was the first time Managorduah had witnessed such a tragic event. He urged local farmers to exercise caution while burning their farms to prevent future incidents.
Farming remains a vital source of livelihood for the people of Gola Konneh District, especially as artisanal mining activities in the region decline. With many residents now turning to agriculture, this tragic event has served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with traditional farming practices.
By the time Afrik Media arrived at the scene, local security authorities had already permitted community members to lay the deceased to rest. Photographs taken at the site revealed severe burns on the victim’s legs and face, though the exact cause of his entrapment in the fire remains unknown.
As investigations continue, the people of Managorduah mourn the loss of a respected community member, calling for improved safety measures in farming practices to prevent future tragedies.
