Washington, D.C. – In a historic move to boost Sierra Leone’s energy sector, the Government of Sierra Leone and the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) signed a $480 million Energy Compact on Friday.
The ceremony took place at the MCC Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and marks a significant step in the relationship between the two nations, backed by bipartisan support from the U.S. Congress.
The compact, which focuses solely on the energy sector, aims to make transformative investments by expanding and strengthening Sierra Leone’s national transmission infrastructure. It will also increase access to electricity in key towns and improve the financial viability of the sector through governance reforms and institutional strengthening.
The agreement builds on the success of the 2016 MCC-funded $44.4 million Threshold Program, which helped improve Sierra Leone’s water and electricity services.
“We are grateful for the long-term meaningful commitment of the American people to Sierra Leone’s progress,” said President Julius Maada Bio during the ceremony.
He highlighted the long-standing partnership between the U.S. and Sierra Leone, describing the Energy Compact as a critical step toward the nation’s development.
The compact underscores the shared commitment of Sierra Leone and the United States to democracy, good governance, and sustainable development.
According to officials, it is expected to benefit over 4 million Sierra Leoneans by providing affordable and reliable electricity for households, businesses, and social institutions.
President Bio noted that the signing affirms his administration’s commitment to key reforms, including electoral changes, laws to protect women and girls, and the free quality school education program.
Sierra Leone will also contribute $14.2 million to the project. The MCC’s CEO emphasized the importance of these reforms and investments in driving Sierra Leone’s economic development.
“This Energy Compact reflects our shared goals of reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development,” she said.
With this agreement, Sierra Leone is expected to experience a significant economic boost, as improved electricity access will create new opportunities for growth in various sectors.
