The Ghana Institute of Governance and Security (GIGS) has joined many across the world to extend its heartfelt sympathy to the government and people of Sierra Leone following the mudslide disaster in which hundreds have perished.

"This is too much for a country to bear, and we, therefore,  urge the other African States, especially in the ECOWAS region to stand with Sierra Leone in this difficult moment.

"We wish to appeal to all Ghanaians and the International community to give a helping hand by donating relief items through the government to support our brothers and sisters in Sierra Leone to reduce their pain," said David Agbee, Executive Director, Ghana Institute of Governance and Security.

GIGS believes humanitarian support for the country will go a long way to protect the lives of the survivors of the mudslide and the victims of the flooding.

Ghanaians and West Africans, in general, have a duty to respond to the SOS distress call by Sierra Leonean President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, for help from outside to overcome the effect of the devastating national disaster, says GIGS.

More than 600 bodies have been recovered and thousands are missing after heavy flooding said to be the worst in Africa in two decades, hit parts of the country.

A resultant mudslide buried villages on the outskirts of the city, perishing hundreds of people.

"GIGS extends our sincere condolences to the government, families and victims of the disaster, and believe that Ghanaians would respond to their call for aid."

Meanwhile, the government is preparing to send relief supplies to Sierra Leone, a nation mourning the tragic loss of nearly 400 lives in a flooding disaster.

"We are also trying in our own small way to put together a package", Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Charles Owiredu said after contacting NADMO officials and the Finance Ministry.

The Deputy Minister said Ghana is responding to a call for help made by President Ernest Bai Koroma.