In a crucial appearance before the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, key players in Sierra Leone’s energy sector—including Energy Sector Lead Dr. Kandeh Yumkella and Deputy Energy Ministers Ing. Edmond Nonie and Dr. Rahim Jalloh—briefed lawmakers on ongoing reforms, sectoral progress, and lingering challenges.
The hearing, held at the House of Parliament, marked the first energy-focused session of the Sixth Parliament. Chairing the session, Hon.
Kekura Vandi underscored Parliament’s commitment to prioritizing social services such as electricity, which he described as vital to national development. He reiterated President Julius Maada Bio’s dedication to transforming the sector despite economic headwinds.
“This engagement allows us to openly discuss the sector and make meaningful recommendations,” said Hon. Vandi, addressing stakeholders including the Director-Generals of EDSA, EGTC, and EWRC.
In his remarks, Dr. Yumkella acknowledged the complexities within the energy landscape—from generation and transmission to distribution—and noted that while progress has been made, significant hurdles remain. He expressed optimism that sustained efforts would lead to long-term energy security.
“For over two decades, Sierra Leone has relied on emergency power. We are now laying the groundwork for sustainable energy development,” Yumkella said. He outlined plans for diversifying power sources, modernizing transmission infrastructure, and transitioning from high-cost to low-cost energy.
The Energy Sector Lead further revealed efforts to enhance financial viability at EDSA and increase energy access, aiming to raise national coverage from 36% to 80% by 2030. He also highlighted ongoing investments in mini grids and clean cooking initiatives.
Deputy Minister Ing. Edmond Nonie detailed five thematic areas under review, including power currently on the grid, electrification of mining operations, strategic energy projects, and the ambitious “Mission 300” and Karpowership initiatives.
Nonie assured MPs that while no citywide outages have occurred, minor interruptions are due to technical issues within the distribution network. He emphasized that corrective measures are underway.
He also introduced plans for a Rural Electrification Agency and noted the rapid expansion of mini grid systems as part of broader efforts to improve rural power access.
With the energy sector tightly linked to the national *Feed Salone* development agenda, the hearing reinforced the government’s push for structural reforms and sustainable solutions in Sierra Leone’s energy future.
