Sierra Leone mudslide survivors receive compensation via mobile money transactions
Hundreds of survivors of the deadly Sierra Leone mudslide that occurred in mid-August have started receiving monetary compensation through mobile platforms, the United Nations said.
The mudslide killed at least 500 people, leaving more than 3,000 homeless after their homes were swept away in what was considered one of Africa’s deadliest landslides ever.
The mobile cash payments, which are being funded by Britain’s aid department, will help about 1,900 households hit by the mudslide to pay for needs from education and food to healthcare, and to enable them to resettle in safer areas.
“I am pleased that … we are able to give money directly to those affected so they can decide what is best to meet their immediate needs and take steps to rebuild their lives,” British high commissioner in Sierra Leone Guy Warrington said.
The U.N. children’s agency (UNICEF) issued mobile phones to heads of households so that they can receive their payments – which will total about $200 over three months.
Those who choose to resettle elsewhere will receive an additional payment of $300 (220 pounds) and food vouchers from the U.N. World Food Programme (WFP), according to U.N. agencies.
The agencies said they hoped the money compensation will enable the affected families ensure children are not forced out of school.
