Freetown, 21 May 2025 — President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has approved sweeping changes in the leadership of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), marking the start of a major reform drive in Sierra Leone’s energy sector.
In an official statement released today by the Ministry of Energy, it was confirmed that the President, who also serves as Minister of Energy, has relieved Dr. Joe Lahai-Sormana of his duties as Director General of EDSA. Ing. James Rogers, the Deputy Director General, has also been removed from his post with immediate effect.
“In the interim, the Chief Operating Officer will assume responsibility for the management of EDSA until a new Director General and Deputy are appointed,” the ministry announced.
The reform effort also includes administrative restructuring, with key departmental heads directed to proceed on immediate leave. Those affected include the Commercial Manager, the Head of Revenue Collection, the Head of Technical Commercial Operations, and the Marketing Manager.
“These changes are not just personnel-related—they are foundational,” the Ministry emphasized. “They are part of a broader initiative to overhaul and strengthen EDSA’s operational framework.”
Key components of the reform package include the establishment of a centralized revenue collection account, enhanced private sector participation in electricity distribution, and the deployment of tamper-proof prepaid meters for high-value T4 customers. The reforms also call for a complete upgrade of EDSA’s ICT systems, staff training and capacity building, and direct ministerial oversight of the Project Implementation Unit.
According to the statement, the changes reflect President Bio’s firm stance on improving transparency, accountability, and efficiency within the country’s energy infrastructure.
“The Ministry of Energy reiterates President Bio’s unwavering commitment to sustainable transformation in the energy sector,” the release concluded.
