DOLO TOWN, Margibi – The Liberia National Red Cross has begun distributing housing materials to victims in Dolo Town and surrounding communities after heavy rains in late June left families homeless and seeking shelters in nearby schools and churches.

The flood damaged several vehicles on the Robertsfield Highway and stalled the movement of people traveling to Monrovia and nearby towns. Joe Blow Town, along the highway, and Zoekline, a suburb of Dolo Town, were among the most heavily affected towns.

Most of the victims who spoke to The Bush Chicken said they felt forgotten by Margibi authorities, the central government, and philanthropist organizations, as they said little was done to help them recover.

The Liberia National Red Cross Society said during the period of the flood, the organization was able to provide beddings and other materials to the victims and promised the worst affected ones to expect other assistance in the future.

The organization’s manager of disaster management, Chris Olu Johnson, said although the provision of materials took several months, he was hopeful that at least they can put a smile on the faces of the flood victims.

“We will provide those who will make full use of these materials by erecting or reconditioning their destroyed structure roofing sheets,” Johnson added.

Christopher Olu Johnson LNRCS Disaster Manager   Photo: Jefferson Daryoue

He said, though there were several others affected by the flood who were not reached, the Red Cross was able to identify with those who were in extreme need of shelter to roof their families.

About 62 family heads that were highlighted during the flood received shelter tool kits containing hammer, cutlasses, rakes, shovel, and other materials to begin work on their properties.

Johnson said over US$70,000 was spent by the Red Cross from July to November to reach out to flood victims in four communities in Lower Margibi.

Many of the recipients thanked the Red Cross for coming to their aid at a time when they needed housing materials to rebuild their homes. Some victims, however, saw their homes completely broken down and needed more help than what was offered.

Andrew Colston, one of the beneficiaries who received a shelter toolkit containing 13 pieces of plank and few nails, said though the material received is little, the Red Cross needs to be applauded for the gesture.

Andrew Colstons, one of the beneficiaries. Photo: Jefferson Daryoue

“The materials can’t repair the damages done to my house as a result of the flood, but it is always good to appreciate whatever help one receives, especially in times of need,” Colston said.

Another beneficiary, Fatu Tengbeh, aged 52, said her house was completely destroyed by the water in mid-July. Tengbeh, a single mother of seven, said all of her children had gone to live with neighbors and relatives due to the unhealthy condition of her new residence.

Fatu Tengbeh stands in front of a temporary building made of roofing sheets given to her until she can relocate. Photo: Jefferson Daryoue

“They don’t feel comfortable living in a hot [house] constructed by zinc, a position they have not been able to suppress,” she said.

Other victims said the reconditioning of their homes was not a sufficient remedy to the flood, as there have been recurrences of flood in past year.

The recent occurrence of flood in lower Margibi has been described as the worst ever in the local settlements.

Featured photo by Jefferson Daryoue