Medical experts from WHO expected in Sierra Leone

Medical experts from the World Health Organization are expected in Freetown, capital of Sierra Leone, this week to provide medical relief for victims of Friday's devastating fuel tanker explosion.

Steven Shongwe, WHO representative in the country, made the announcement on Monday, when the WHO donated the first consignment of six metric tons of medical supplies to help in response to the explosion which has killed more than 100 people.

The supplies were received at the Freetown International Airport in Lungi, by Sierra Leone Health Minister Austin Demby, who thanked the WHO and other international partners for coming to the aid of the people of Sierra Leone.

Shongwe disclosed that some of the people who sustained injuries have very serious burns that required special care with support from global partners.

The WHO has identified three out of its network of burns experts to come and conduct a proper assessment of the medical needs.

President Julius Maada Bio has declared three days of national mourning in the West African country, with the flag of the country to be flown at half-mast.

Liberia's President George M. Weah, the UN Secretary General Antonio Gutterres, and other leaders from around the world have expressed condolences to the people of Sierra Leone.