The Gambian community in Libya and beyond is grieving the loss of Adama Cham, identified as the third victim of a devastating fire in Tripoli’s Arada neighborhood that claimed three lives and injured over two dozen others. The tragic incident, which occurred on Friday morning, was caused by a gas cylinder explosion in a house occupied by Gambian migrants, exacerbated by gasoline used to combat a bedbug infestation.
In a heartfelt statement, Batuwo Fatty, a cousin of Adama Cham, expressed profound sorrow, stating, “Losing him in the recent fire incident has left a hole in our lives that can never be filled. It was painful, and it was too soon.” The statement highlighted Cham’s kind heart, bravery, and ambition, noting his efforts to support his mother in Jaffai, Gambia. “He worked really so hard for his mom,” the cousin wrote, praying for Cham’s soul to be granted “the highest place in Jannah” and eternal peace.
The fire, initially reported to have killed two Gambians instantly, claimed Cham’s life in the days following, bringing the death toll to three.
According to Papa Saho, a community member assisting victims, 25 Gambians were affected, with three in critical condition and eight in serious condition at the time of the initial report. Six others, including Lamin Solley, Kitim Jawla, and Muhammed Jaiteh, were discharged due to a lack of hospital beds and are struggling to find permanent accommodation.
Saho, alongside Landing, Eliman Jassey, and Sarjo Fadera, has been providing critical support to the victims despite no assistance from the Gambian embassy or consular officials. The community has refuted claims by the Gambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs that consular representatives visited the site, with Saho stating, “No Gambian government staff has come to help.” Another community member, Jawla, confirmed the absence of a Gambian embassy or consular office in Libya, noting that the last consular official, Edrissa Sarge, was recalled last year.
The lack of diplomatic support has compounded the challenges faced by the victims, who are enduring “deplorable” conditions, including limited access to medical care and frequent evictions by Libyan landlords. “The Libyans do not treat us as human beings,” Saho said, appealing for urgent government intervention to aid the victims and establish a permanent diplomatic presence.
Cham’s death has intensified calls for action. Beneficiaries like Sarjo Ceesay from Keneba emphasized the broader struggles of Gambian migrants, urging the government to address their plight. “Adama had a brave spirit and ambition,” his cousin wrote, reflecting the loss felt by a community already grappling with systemic challenges in Libya.
As the Gambian community mourns, efforts to identify the remaining victims and secure treatment for those in critical condition continue. The tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved support for Gambian migrants, with the community rallying to honor Cham’s memory and advocate for change.
