Bamenda: Baby Precious Still Missing After Heavy Downpour

Flooded Bridge In Bamenda: Picture Used For Illustration 

By Raymond Dingana 

It has been more than 24 hours since heavy rains swept away a nine months old baby by name Precious, in Sisia 4, Bamenda III Sub Division of the North West Region of Cameroon. Sources close to the family report that heavy rain water carried Precious away after she and her aunt, Sakinatu, fell into a stream near their home.

The incident occurred shortly after Precious woke from a nap, crying as any baby would when longing for her mother. 

As Sakinatu,and Precious made their way to find her mother, they fell into the stream. Nearby residents rushed to their aid, and thanks to a neighbor named Ngongmu, Sakinatu was rescued. Unfortunately, baby Precious was swept away.

Search efforts on Tuesday and Wednesday to locate her have been unsuccessful. Sakinatu is currently receiving treatment at a health facility in Bamenda, while the search for baby Precious continues.

The heavy rains that fell on Tuesday night complicated the rescue mission, according to one volunteer who stated they would not rest until their mission is complete. 

This sad event occurred just days after the National Observatory on Climate Change (ONOCC) issued warnings of imminent natural disasters, including floods, in several regions of Cameroon. 

Authorities have identified Sisia quarter as a high risk zone. Some of the bridges over streams pose serious dangers. The area’s slope makes it particularly hazardous, as rocks can easily dislodge and cause havoc.

Authorities have repeatedly urged residents in risky areas to evacuate. However, they have not provided alternative housing, which has hindered efforts to relocate those in danger. Residents claim that if suitable housing were offered, they would leave the risk zones without hesitation.

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