Far North Region: Over 200 people homeless after wildfire ravages 24 houses

More than 200 people have been rendered homeless in Oudjila, a locality in the Mayo Sava Division of the Far North Region, after a wildfire consumed 24 houses.

The homeless people, mostly comprised of women and children, neither have roofs over their heads, nor anything to eat as a result of the fire, MMI learned.

Reports say the fire was caused by an extension of a bushfire that was lit over the weekend.

One of the victims said the family lost everything, including their clothes.

“We hope the State comes to the aid of our children who have nothing to wear and go to school. Even what to feed these children is beyond us. Now we have lost everything in the space of a few minutes. If the government fails to react it will be a disaster for our children,” a man who lost his home said.

Another victim whose name we got as Salomon Oumar reacted saying: “I have 12 wives and 28 children, as tradition demands here in Oudjila. Every wife has a bedroom, two attics, and a kitchen. They have all been destroyed by the flames.”

The victims are appealing to goodwill individuals as well as to the government to come to their aid.

Oudjila is a locality formerly frequented by tourists.

It is best known for its beautiful constructions, wooden huts and raffia straw roofs.

It also has a rich cultural heritage to which its inhabitants are quite attached.

By Amina Hilda