By Saffa B. Moriba, Kenema District
Kenema, SIERRA LEONE, 28 June, 2025 – A wave of unexplained livestock deaths has left farmers in Simbaru Chiefdom, Kenema District, deeply worried and pleading for urgent government intervention.
In the last few weeks, over 85 goats and sheep have perished in the villages of Mbelebu and Komende, both located near the Chiefdom’s headquarters in Boajibu. The alarming outbreak, which began in Mbelebu and later spread to Komende, is the first of its kind in the area and is threatening the livelihoods and food security of dozens of farming families.
According to Musa Kamara, popularly known as DJ Base of Komende Village, the situation began last month when more than 35 animals died in Mbelebu. In an effort to salvage what remained, a relative moved one of his goats to Komende. Shortly after, the disease seemed to take hold there as well, with over 50 animals dying in the space of two weeks.
“The animals start by coughing, then develop runny noses and diarrhea. Once an animal lies down, it rarely gets back up – it just dies,” Kamara said grimly.
This mysterious illness, which remains unidentified, has sparked fears of a possible zoonotic disease — one that could potentially affect humans. Some villagers have already started complaining of headaches and stomach pains, though no direct link has been confirmed.
In response, the local Agricultural Officer, Mr. Kanyakoi, has held meetings with affected communities in Boajibu. He advised villagers not to consume any of the dead animals under any circumstance, stressing the risk of transmission to humans. He also urged them to bury the carcasses promptly to prevent further spread.
“This could have serious implications if not addressed swiftly,” Mr. Kanyakoi warned, adding that such livestock diseases can cripple rural economies and endanger public health if left unchecked.
With livestock being a major source of income and nutrition for residents in Simbaru, the current crisis is already taking a toll on families who depend on goats and sheep for food, trade, and farming labor.
Farmers are now urging the government and humanitarian partners to intervene with veterinary support, medication, and disease surveillance to contain the outbreak before it spreads to neighboring communities.
“This is beyond us,” Kamara lamented. “If help doesn’t come soon, many more animals — and possibly even people — could be at risk.” SM/28/6/2025
