Update: Sierra Leone Mudslides and nearby Field Partners

On August 14, Sierra Leone suffered a devastating natural disaster. Mudslides and flooding occurred within Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, that destroyed a large amount of the city’s homes and infrastructure and took many lives. Various news sources now report that the rain-induced devastation caused between 600 and 1,000 people to lose their lives or become seriously injured.

Kiva is deeply saddened to hear of the hardships that the country is undergoing, and has reached out to our Field Partners in Sierra Leone to see how we can support them during this challenging time. These Field Partners include the Association for Rural Development (ARD), Salone Microfinance Trust (SMT), BRAC Sierra Leone and Mountain Lion Agriculture.

Thankfully, all 4 organizations have reported that their employees are safe and physically unharmed by the mudslides. In addition, none have heard reports of Kiva borrowers being physically injured, though they are still waiting for more information. BRAC Sierra Leone is also in contact with the Sierra Leonean government in order to collect more information and assist survivors.

Kiva is grateful that our Field Partners and borrowers are safe but we know their communities are still hurting. We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by this natural disaster.

Kiva will continue to keep in contact with our Field Partners in Sierra Leone for additional information and to give support. Updates will be provided as we hear more.