MONROVIA - In north-central Liberia, claiming the lives of at least 40 individuals following the explosion of a gas tanker, as reported by the country's chief medical officer, Francis Kateh, on Wednesday.

The tragic event occurred when a fuel truck collided late on Tuesday in Totota, Lower Bong County, leading to a subsequent explosion that resulted in numerous casualties among those gathered at the scene. Many individuals are currently hospitalized with severe burns, and there is a looming possibility of the death toll increasing, as stated by Kateh during a press briefing.

Highlighting the broader context, Sub-Saharan Africa continues to grapple with poor road safety and inadequate infrastructure, solidifying its position as the world's most perilous region for accidents. United Nations statistics reveal a fatality rate three times higher than the European average, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures in the region.