Fire Guts Sierra Leone’s Historic State House in Freetown

A massive fire broke out at Sierra Leone’s State House in Freetown on Saturday afternoon, engulfing the upper floors of the historic presidential building and triggering a swift emergency response.

The blaze, which started around 4:00 p.m. GMT, ravaged the third and fourth floors of the colonial-era structure. Authorities confirmed, however, that the second floor—home to President Julius Maada Bio’s office—remains intact. President Bio is currently abroad, attending a conference in Turkey.

“The emergency teams are working diligently to ensure the president’s office remains protected,” the Ministry of Information stated, while also noting that the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Eyewitness videos on social media captured flames and thick black smoke pouring from the upper windows of the iconic white building, a prominent feature in central Freetown. “We saw smoke and fire billowing from the windows and the top floor of the building this evening,” said local resident Mohamed Kamara.

Security forces quickly sealed off the area as fire crews battled the flames for hours. Fire trucks were seen entering the compound while soldiers and police managed onlookers and maintained order.

The incident has sparked renewed concern about the protection of Sierra Leone’s national heritage. The State House, originally constructed in 1895 as Fort Thornton, has served as a seat of power since colonial times. It became the official residence of the country’s prime minister in 1961 and, from 1971, the official residence and office of the president.

This marks yet another cultural loss for the nation, following the fire that destroyed the historic Freetown Cotton Tree two years ago.