By: Alieu Ceesay
In the early hours of January 22, 2025, a devastating fire broke out in Bakau Newtown, destroying five bedrooms and leaving several residents without a home. The blaze consumed numerous possessions, including televisions, beds, clothing, books, and other valuable items.
Victims of the fire have attributed the cause to a mosquito light that was left on in one of the houses, intended to repel mosquitoes in the room.
Samba Badjie, a pensioner who supports his family, described the significant impact the fire has had on his life.
“Almost everything in my house was consumed by the fire,” Badjie told The Alkamba Times. “I am the one taking care of the children; their mother is no longer alive. I’m a pensioner, and I returned to work at the bank on a contract where they pay me D3000, which is what I’m managing.” His plea for support resonates with a deep sense of loss.
“Everything is gone; the only clothes I have left are the ones I’m wearing,” he lamented.
Due to the fire, Badjie and his family now rely on neighbors’ and relatives’ hospitality for shelter. The victims have issued a call for assistance to help them recover from the disaster.
During the incident, neighbors played a vital role in attempting to control the flames before the Gambia Fire Rescue Service arrived.
Eyewitnesses noted that the Bakau unit of the Gambia Fire Rescue Service was the first to respond. However, some local residents reported that the unit faced fire management challenges.
According to Mustapha, an eyewitness, “They fought the fire for less than five minutes and then said their water had run out.”
The community is now rallying to support those affected by the fire as they seek to rebuild their lives.
