By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Government Weekly Press Briefing on Tuesday July 2, 2024, featured key updates from prominent figures in Sierra Leone’s energy, finance and development sectors. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, Ndeye Fatu Koroma, National Coordinator of the Sierra Leone Compact Development Unit, and Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, Minister of Finance, provided detailed insights into their respective areas of responsibility.
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella detailed the country’s ambitious plans for transforming its energy infrastructure, emphasizing a shift from temporary fixes to sustainable solutions. He discussed significant pledges from OPEC and concrete plans to attract investment through bankable projects. Kandeh Yumkella highlighted key initiatives, including the expansion of the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Project to double its 50 MW capacity by adding turbines and a floating solar component.
“Fixing the energy system takes time,” he stated. “It cannot be political.” He stressed the importance of upgrading the existing infrastructure, such as the sole 161kv transmission line, and prioritizing renewable energy sources. Projects in Kamakwie and Bikongor aim to add 50 MW of solar power each, with additional potential from the Dodo and Shinjimi Dams he intimated adding that President Bio’s “Just Energy Transition Plan” (JET-P) targets generating over 1 gigawatt (GW) within the next decade.
Kandeh Yumkella underscored the need for a professional and technical board at the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to ensure timely payments to investors and stimulate further investment. International support, including $800 million in pledges, $480 million from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), and a $412 million gas power plant project, signifies growing confidence in the Government’s vision, he maintained.
The Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security also criticized the long-delayed Bumbuna Phase II project, labeling it a “sham” due to over a decade of inactivity and an unjustified $90 million demand from the company involved. He vowed to challenge such deals in international arbitration if necessary.
Kandeh Yumkella emphasized Bumbuna’s importance as the most affordable energy source in Sierra Leone, noting its current 50 MW capacity and potential to double with additional turbines and floating solar panels. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to pursuing sustainable energy solutions rather than temporary fixes.
Dr. Yumkella’s candid discussion highlighted the challenges and opportunities in Sierra Leone’s energy sector. His call for transparency and rejection of exploitative deals resonated as a crucial step toward achieving the country’s long-term development goals. The Government’s comprehensive approach, backed by significant international support, aims to lay a strong foundation for sustainable growth and energy independence.
Ndeye Fatu Koroma, National Coordinator of the Sierra Leone Compact Development Unit, elaborated on the recent Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) approval and the next steps. This $480 million support underscores international confidence in Sierra Leone’s developmental trajectory, she stated.
Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, discussed the economic implications of these developments. He outlined the Government’s strategies to manage implementation effectively, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives in bolstering the country’s economic stability and growth.
Minister of Information and Civic Education ,Chernoh Bah, who chaired the event, encouraged citizens to engage in discussions about leveraging these opportunities for a brighter future. He provided additional insights and updates, urging everyone to participate in shaping the nation’s developmental path.
Overall, the briefing highlighted the Government’s commitment to transparency, sustainable development, and economic resilience, with a clear call for public involvement in these transformative efforts.
