CESTOS, Rivercess County — The Liberia National Red Cross Society has announced immediate plans to support the reconstruction of Bethel Town in Dodian District following a devastating fire that destroyed dozens of homes and displaced scores of residents.
The February 15 blaze left more than 150 people—mostly women and children—homeless, after destroying 24 homes and 27 kitchens, forcing affected families into overcrowded and unsafe living conditions.
Many victims are currently sheltering in a town hall and two surviving houses, while others remain exposed outdoors, raising serious concerns about health risks, including malaria and other communicable diseases.
“A Lifeline, Not Just Charity”
Speaking during a visit to the county, the Red Cross Chief Executive Officer, Gregory Blamoh, described the intervention as urgent and essential.
“Our support to the people of Bethel Town is more than charity—it is a lifeline,” Blamoh said. “It is a chance to restore dignity and prevent a child from sleeping in the cold.”
He emphasized that the organization’s response is focused not only on immediate relief, but also on long-term recovery for vulnerable families.
Rebuilding with Resilience
Under its recovery plan, the Red Cross will provide affected households with essential construction materials, including zinc roofing sheets, cement, and nails.
In a shift toward more durable housing, the organization will also support the transition from traditional mud structures to stronger dirt-brick homes, aimed at improving resilience against future disasters.
To facilitate the process, the Red Cross will supply:
- A manual brick-molding machine
- Wheelbarrows and shovels
- Technical support from skilled local builders and contractors
Blamoh noted that the initiative is designed to ensure quality construction while empowering communities to take ownership of the rebuilding process.
“This tragedy is a painful reminder of how quickly lives can be shattered,” he said. “We are especially concerned about women, children, the elderly, and those with health conditions. They may be far away, but they are not forgotten.”
Call for Support
The Red Cross is calling on development partners, humanitarian organizations, and individuals to support ongoing recovery efforts in Bethel Town.
The intervention is being implemented with initial backing from the Swedish Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross, with additional support expected as the rebuilding effort progresses.
Local Authorities Welcome Intervention
Local authorities have praised the initiative, describing it as timely and critical.
Rivercess County Superintendent Byron W. Sahnwea commended the Red Cross for its swift response.
“We are deeply thankful to the Red Cross for demonstrating true humanity,” he said. “Your presence here means a great deal to the people of Bethel Town.”
He assured the organization of the county’s full cooperation to ensure successful implementation of the project.
Restoring Hope and Dignity
The Red Cross says its approach prioritizes transparency and sustainability. Materials will be distributed in phases, tied to visible construction progress, to ensure accountability and proper use.
With its campaign message—“Stand with Bethel: Restore Hope, Rebuild Dignity”—the organization aims not only to rebuild homes, but to help families recover with dignity and build safer, more resilient communities.
As reconstruction begins, hundreds of affected residents in Bethel Town are looking to the initiative as a pathway out of hardship—and toward renewed hope.
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