By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a sweeping reform initiative aimed at overhauling the operations of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has announced major leadership changes at the institution.
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, President Bio revealed that the Director General of EDSA, Dr. Joe Lahai-Sormana and the Deputy Director General, Ing. James Rogers, have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect. Their removal is part of a broader strategy to boost efficiency, ensure accountability and improve service delivery in the electricity sector.
Until substantive replacements are appointed, Tesman Awo Egbe, the current Chief Operating Officer, will assume interim leadership of EDSA. Tesman Awo Egbe, a Nigerian national with nearly two decades of experience in the energy sector, is expected to steer the institution through this transition period.
This high-level shake-up also includes administrative leave for several other key officials: the Commercial Manager, Head of Revenue Collection, Head of Technical Commercial Operations and the Marketing Manager.
The Government’s reform agenda for EDSA focuses on enhancing revenue collection, reducing losses and modernizing the agency’s technical and administrative systems. Among the key measures are the implementation of a centralized revenue collection framework, the deployment of tamper-proof electricity meters, increased private sector participation and a complete overhaul of the Authority’s ICT infrastructure. Staff retraining and tighter oversight by the Ministry of Energy are also central to the reform plan.
Tesman Awo Egbe’s appointment comes with a wealth of regional experience. He has previously worked in Rwanda, Malawi and Nigeria and joined EDSA through World Bank support aimed at helping Sierra Leone improve its energy systems. As an electrical engineer, Tesman Awo Egbe is regarded as a seasoned professional capable of navigating the complexities of utility management.
The changes mark a significant step in President Bio’s efforts to revitalize Sierra Leone’s energy sector. By reinforcing transparency and accountability, the President aims to ensure a stable and sustainable electricity supply that supports national development and economic growth.
Observers view the move as a clear message from the Presidency that underperformance in key public service institutions will no longer be tolerated.
These efforts underscore President Bio’s commitment to transparency and sustainable energy transformation in Sierra Leone.
