The 400-year-old kapok tree in Freetown, Sierra Leone, West Africa, fell during a rain storm on the night of 24 May, 2023.
The tree known in Sierra Leone as the Cotton Tree, is a national symbol adoring bank notes and stamps. It was even visited by Queen Elizabeth Ii during a state visit in 1961.
The tree, Ceiba pentandra, is believed to be over 400 years old and grew to 230 feet (70 metres) high.
In 1792, freed slaves arriving Freetown gathered under the tree to offer prayers in thanksgiving for their freedom. The practice is said to have continued till the end of that century.
The tree therefore, became a symbol of freedom and independence.
President Julius Maada Bio led government ministers to the site and plan to immortalise the memory of the iconic Cotton Tree.
No one was injured by the fall.
