TOTOTA, Bong County – Leelai Kpukuyou-Browne, the Executive Director of African Youth Empowerment and Women’s Initiatives (AYOEWI), has issued a heartfelt plea to national and international organizations, urging them to extend support to the victims affected by the recent gas tanker explosion in Bong County.
By Francis G. Boayue
The tragic explosion, which occurred on Tuesday in Totota, claimed multiple lives and left many others severely injured. Survivors are currently undergoing treatment at major referral hospitals, with some still in critical condition, fighting for their lives.
Madam Kpukuyou-Browne, a native and advocate for the people of Bong County, revealed that her own family members were among those caught up in the devastating accident. In a widely circulated video released on December 26, she emotionally expressed her solidarity and offered words of comfort in her native Kpelleh language to her fellow community members affected by the catastrophe.
Initial reports suggested a death toll of at least 40 individuals, including a pregnant woman. However, the police have confirmed the toll at 13 lives lost so far.
Reflecting on the aftermath, Madam Browne emphasized the profound impact of the disaster on numerous families, leaving many in a state of depression and vulnerability. She urged the National Disaster Management Agency, Liberia National Red Cross Society, charitable organizations, health institutions, welfare organizations, as well as Bong citizens residing both locally and abroad, to come together and provide much-needed assistance to the victims and their families.
Madam Kpukuyou-Browne also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the “Blanko’s Basket” initiative, a flagship program under AYOEWI. This project is dedicated to aiding pregnant women and teenage mothers facing dire socio-economic conditions. Notably, beneficiaries of the Blanko’s Basket project span across Bong, Montserrado, Grand Bassa, Bomi, and Margibi Counties.
In response to the Totota disaster, initial relief efforts have been initiated by the AYOEWI team, and Madam Kpukuyou-Browne remains actively engaged in supporting and maintaining contact with affected individuals during this distressing and emotionally challenging period.