By Amin Kef (Ranger)
As the Ministry of Energy (MOE) underwent a change in leadership a year ago, many expected significant improvements in Sierra Leone’s energy sector. However, after 12 months, the nation continues to face persistent challenges. The key question remains: What has really changed?
Despite promises for improved energy supply, Sierra Leone is experiencing fewer hours of electricity. Power outages are becoming more frequent, with the electricity system failing more often than before.
Government officials continue to offer speeches explaining the situation, but tangible results seem absent. Reports of energy improvements appear more like empty promises, lacking substantial progress on the ground.
The nation’s energy sector is accumulating more debt owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) such as Karpowership and CLSG, and fuel suppliers. There is also a growing financial burden to the National Revenue Authority (NRA) after sealing the offices of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA).
Several projects and initiatives were signaled as key advancements in the energy sector, but upon closer inspection, many of these were initiated under the previous administration at the Ministry:
- Nant Power Station: A long-term project negotiated and finalized under the former administration remains a highlight for energy gains, but it was not an achievement of the current government.
- World Bank TBEA 28 MW Solar: Set to be available only by 2026, this project was advertised, evaluated, and prepared during the previous administration at the ministry.
- Electrification in Kailahun, Pujehun, Bonthe, and Moyamba: These electrification projects, hailed as progress, were also executed by the former energy administration.
- Mini-Grids: Multiple mini-grids were launched under the former administration, contributing to rural electrification.
- MCC (Millennium Challenge Compact): While it was prepared by the previous administration and now suspended, it was touted as a major energy gain by the current government.
- New Meters: The introduction of new meters was another initiative finalized by the former energy administration, with 100 more meters to be distributed.
The truth is, the so-called “energy gains” under the current administration at the ministry are little more than a rebranding of long-standing initiatives led by the previous administration.
One of the latest projects to emerge is the touted “300 MW Compact,” which some see as little more than an exposure process to bolster presidential ambitions. While presented as a breakthrough, the compact may ultimately serve as yet another empty promise aimed at enhancing political visibility rather than solving the energy crisis.
Sierra Leone’s energy crisis cannot be solved through speeches and media exposure. It requires a comprehensive, cluster-based approach with a dedicated team focused solely on resolving the sector’s challenges. Leadership ambitions should not overshadow the urgent need for real solutions.
As the country faces ongoing power shortages and rising debts, the question remains: Who is truly responsible for the state of Sierra Leone’s energy sector a year after the leadership change in the ministry? The answer, it seems, is not as clear-cut as the promises made in speeches.
What has truly changed in Sierra Leone’s energy sector? A comparison of the efforts made by both the previous and current administrations highlights that many of the projects touted as “new” energy gains are, in fact, continuations of long-established initiatives. The real task lies in ensuring that these projects are completed, and the energy sector is reformed in a way that benefits the people of Sierra Leone rather than being used as a platform for political ambition.
