Mother, Son Critically Injured in Kenema Building Collapse

Mother, Son Critically Injured in Kenema Building Collapse

A catastrophic building collapse has left a 32-year-old bread vendor, Aminata Jinnah, and her 8-year-old son, Emmanuel Pessima, with severe, life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred at approximately 9:00 PM on January 10, 2026, at 46 Combema Road in Kenema, when a section of a partially demolished structure unexpectedly gave way.

Eyewitness Mohamed Kallon reported that Ms. Jinnah and her son were conducting their usual street-side sales near the wall when the collapse happened, burying them under debris. Ms. Jinnah sustained a compound fracture extending from her leg to her ankle, necessitating immediate advanced medical intervention.

The construction crew and project proprietors have reportedly disavowed responsibility for the incident, asserting that they had previously cautioned Ms. Jinnah against occupying the location for her vending activities. 

Emmanuel, a Class 4 student, and his mother are currently receiving treatment for their serious injuries at the Kenema Government Hospital. Furthermore, family members have indicated intentions to transfer Ms. Jinnah for traditional medical care in their home village.