Nearly two weeks after the deadly tanker explosion in Freetown, the Sierra Leonean capital, health officials say the death toll has risen to 144.

The previous estimate at the time when the government held a mass burial for victims of the explosion stood at 115.

According to the health ministry, fifty-seven people are still being treated in hospitals of whom 11 remain in a critical condition.

On November 5, 2021, a fuel tanker exploded following a collision in the capital leaving at least 99 people dead and more than 100 others injured. 

Last week, the WHO sent a contingent of medical experts and tonnes of medical supplies to assist the country during this period.

Harold Thomas is communications officer for the Sierra Leonean ministry of health. He has been speaking to WADR about the latest development.