MONROVIA, Liberia (AP) — Liberians gathered this week to mark a decade since the country was hit by a devastating Ebola outbreak that killed more than 10,000 people in West Africa, adding to the region’s economic and political troubles.

In Liberia, on the second Wednesday of March, people come together to remember on National Decoration Day. This year, a memorial site outside the capital city of Monrovia was filled with individuals paying tribute to their family and friends who were victims of the virus. Despite cultural stigma causing some to deny it, this day serves as a solemn reminder for those who have lost loved ones to the virus.

The United Nations reported that the Ebola outbreak caused the death of approximately 11,000 individuals, primarily in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea. In 2016, Liberia was declared clear of the virus after experiencing nearly 5,000 fatalities.

A significant number of Liberians whose family members perished during the epidemic refuse to believe that the virus was the cause. The fear and prejudice surrounding the disease continue to exist among the surviving population.

According to Yasa Johnson, she has taken care of her younger siblings after their mother passed away from Ebola.

She stated her purpose as paying respects to her mother at the Disco Hill Safe Burial Site in Margibi County. This location, situated on the outskirts of the capital, served as the final resting place for numerous victims.

According to the National Public Health Institute of Liberia, approximately 4,500 individuals have been buried or cremated at the location. Family members gathered in groups, holding flowers and singing spiritual hymns.

Elizabeth Brown, along with her spouse, who run a home for orphaned children whose parents have succumbed to the virus, also arrived to express their condolences.

She expressed her sadness as their lives coming to an end too soon and stated, “We simply want to assist them.”

After the initial spread, Liberia has faced continuous financial difficulties. In January, Joseph Boakai, who is 79 years old and recently won the presidential election, promised to address the economic issues, strengthen security, and combat corruption.