The catastrophic explosion and fire at Guinea’s main fuel depot in Conakry have tragically resulted in the death toll rising to 18, as of Tuesday night. This devastating incident, which occurred on Sunday night in the port area of Kaloum, Conakry’s administrative and business district, caused not only significant loss of life but also extensive material damage, disrupting economic activities in the region.
The intensity of the explosion was such that it affected buildings over a radius of more than a kilometer, including the building hosting the trial related to the September 28, 2009 massacre. Despite firefighters managing to contain and control the fire by Monday afternoon, the site continued to emit smoke into Tuesday, and firefighters were actively engaged in response efforts.
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Firemen monitor the fire after a blast at an oil terminal in Conakry, Guinea December 18, 2023. © Souleymane Camara, Reuters
The event led to the temporary desertion of the port area, as local residents fled to the suburbs to escape the aftermath. In response to this tragedy, the government announced the minimum reopening of downtown Conakry’s administrations and the resumption of diesel supplies across the country starting Wednesday.
The seriousness of the situation prompted the public prosecutor to initiate a judicial inquiry to investigate the alleged “arson” and determine the causes of the fire and identify those responsible. As of now, the exact origin of the fire remains unknown.
The international community, including Pope Francis, has expressed solidarity with the victims of the explosion. During a Weekly General Wednesday on December 20, Pope Francis conveyed his closeness to the families of the deceased and the injured, praying for their sustenance and hope.