Doloquee
In the aftermath of the devastating fuel tanker explosion in Totota, Bong County, which claimed the lives of an estimated 70 individuals on December 26, 2023, Liberians from all walks of life are coming together to pay tribute, express sympathy, and extend support to the grieving families.
The death toll, with 37 confirmed fatalities from medical facilities in Montserrado and Margibi counties, continues to rise. Currently, 101 individuals with severe burns are undergoing treatment in various hospitals across Montserrado, Margibi, and Bong counties.
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Amidst the tragedy, citizens are rallying to offer assistance, with humanitarian groups and ordinary individuals contributing to aid the victims’ families. Mr. B. Abel Learweyllie, a dedicated Liberian, has stepped forward to express his dismay at the loss of lives and to join President-elect Joseph Nyumah Boakai in calling for an investigation and preventive measures to avert such incidents in the future.
As a gesture of solidarity and support, Abel, a development practitioner and peacebuilder donated essential items and food to the families of the victims in Bong County. He emphasized the preciousness of every Liberian life and stressed the collective responsibility to safeguard them.
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“The loss of one Liberian in any situation should capture the attention of all Liberians,” stated Mr. Learweyllie, who serves as the Founder and Executive Director at Camp for Peace Liberia and the Research and Documentation Officer at Lutheran Church in Liberia’s Trauma Healing and Reconciliation Program.
Acknowledging his partner’s contribution, Steelworkers Humanity Fund, in making the funds available for the donation, Abel expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the support process.
While making the donation, he urged the Liberia National Police to be proactive in securing accident scenes, emphasizing the importance of preventing such tragedies. The Bong County Disaster Management Team received the donated items on behalf of the victims in the county.
In times of grief, the unity and compassion of Liberians shine through as they stand together to navigate the challenges and support those affected by the Totota tragedy.
