In a key step toward advancing institutional collaboration and energy sustainability, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is exploring a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Energy to improve power access and infrastructure security across its nationwide operations.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Martin Egbenda, Acting Head of Infrastructure at the SLP, led the engagement on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, during a courtesy visit to Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead on Tuesday, 9 July 2025 at the Ministry of Energy.
Held at Electricity House in Freetown, the high-level dialogue centered on deepening cooperation between the two institutions, with a focus on energy access for police facilities, protection of national power infrastructure and support for Sierra Leone’s green energy transition.
A key highlight of the discussion was the proposed solarization of Police Barracks, Divisions and Stations across the country. DSP Martin Egbenda underscored that the SLP is undergoing a digital transformation to modernize its operations, noting that uninterrupted power supply is critical to the success of that initiative.
Currently, many police installations are connected to the national grid through the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). However, officials say that has resulted in substantial revenue losses for EDSA due to irregular payments and unmetered usage. Concerns have been raised over the possibility of disconnection from the grid, prompting the SLP to consider alternative energy solutions.
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella welcomed the initiative and expressed the Ministry’s willingness to support the SLP’s transition to solar energy, emphasizing that such a move would not only reduce dependency on the national grid but also promote energy efficiency and cost savings.
In return, the SLP pledged to strengthen security at all solar energy sites and key energy facilities. Among the proposals was the deployment of dedicated police posts at major EDSA installations nationwide to deter vandalism, theft and sabotage; threats that continue to undermine energy delivery.
The two sides also discussed the formation of a joint security task force consisting of police and military personnel. This task force would support EDSA’s ongoing inspection exercises, conducting surprise checks to crack down on illegal electricity connections, particularly in factories, hotels and high-energy-consumption residences in Freetown and other urban centers.
This evolving partnership between the Ministry of Energy and the Sierra Leone Police signals a new era of cross-sector collaboration aimed at improving infrastructure resilience and achieving national development goals. It reflects a shared commitment to enhancing energy access, ensuring infrastructure safety and supporting Sierra Leone’s broader push toward digital transformation and renewable energy adoption.
With the country preparing for long-term infrastructure modernization, the Ministry and the SLP are setting a strong example of inter-agency synergy; where power flows securely and security is powered reliably.
