By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Electricity remains one of Sierra Leone’s most pressing challenges, affecting businesses, households and overall economic growth. Despite repeated promises by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio since assuming office in 2018, the country continues to grapple with an unreliable power supply. Recent load-shedding measures introduced by the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) have sparked widespread public frustration, with citizens questioning why electricity shortages persist despite increased tariffs and Government interventions.
The electricity crisis in Sierra Leone stems from a combination of factors, including outdated infrastructure, mismanagement, power theft and insufficient generation capacity. Many of the country’s transformers and distribution networks are decades old, unable to efficiently support the growing electricity demand. Additionally, power losses due to illegal connections further strain the already fragile system.
While the Government has made efforts to stabilize the situation by reactivating the Kingtom power plant and working on maintenance at the Black Hall Road power station, these measures have yet to significantly alleviate the crisis. The reduction in electricity supply from Karpowership—from 65MW to 50MW—has further exacerbated the problem, leaving Freetown and other major areas experiencing prolonged blackouts. Furthermore, the CLSG (Côte d’Ivoire-Liberia-Sierra Leone-Guinea) power supply is primarily dedicated to provincial areas and does not serve Freetown, creating an imbalance in power distribution.
The consequences of an unstable electricity supply are severe. Businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), struggle to operate efficiently due to reliance on costly generators. Fuel costs make it difficult for companies to sustain their operations, leading to job losses, reduced productivity and economic stagnation. Households, on the other hand, face financial burdens from damaged electrical appliances due to unstable voltage, as well as increased risks of fire outbreaks caused by power fluctuations.
Citizens have also raised concerns over the rising cost of electricity tariffs, which have reportedly increased by over 300% since 2018. Despite paying higher rates, the quality of service has not improved, leading to growing discontent and calls for greater accountability within the energy sector.
In 2025, the fact that Sierra Leoneans must still endure a rigid load-shedding schedule is nothing short of a national disgrace. At a time when reliable electricity should be a given, homes remain in darkness, businesses struggle to survive, and the economy continues to suffer. The hopes of citizens have been met with nothing but empty speeches and unfulfilled promises, while the power sector deteriorates further with each passing day. A full year has passed since the new electricity administration took over, yet instead of progress, the situation has worsened. Power outages have become even more frequent, casting doubt on whether there is any real commitment to solving this crisis. Infrastructure continues to fail, accountability is absent, and consumers are left to bear the burden of a system that should have been fixed long ago.
To resolve Sierra Leone’s electricity crisis, the Government must take decisive action to address both short-term disruptions and long-term energy sustainability. The following measures should be prioritized:
• Increase Generation Capacity – Karpowership to increase output of power ,stabilize Kingtom and manage its cost, the Government must fast-track the full restoration of Black Hall Road power station and further invest in renewable energy sources such as solar and hydro to diversify electricity generation.
• Continue to Upgrade and Expand Infrastructure – Outdated transformers and transmission lines need urgent upgrades to improve electricity distribution efficiency and reduce technical losses.
• Strengthen Anti-Theft Measures – Electricity theft remains a major challenge, causing financial losses and worsening load-shedding. A robust crackdown on illegal connections, coupled with the implementation of smart metering technology, can help address this issue.
• Enhance Transparency and Accountability: EDSA and the Ministry of Energy must provide clear, periodic reports on tariff adjustments, revenue allocation and infrastructure investments to rebuild public trust.
• Encourage Private Sector Participation – Partnering with independent power producers and allowing more private investment in energy generation and distribution can boost efficiency and improve service delivery.
Electricity is not a luxury; it is a basic necessity that drives economic growth, healthcare, education, and overall national development. The time for excuses is over; the Government, regulatory bodies and stakeholders must work collaboratively to ensure a stable, affordable and sustainable electricity supply for all Sierra Leoneans.
Citizens, Civil Society Organizations and the business community must also hold authorities accountable and demand urgent reforms. Whether through peaceful demonstrations, petitions or legal action, public advocacy plays a crucial role in ensuring that energy sector leaders prioritize the needs of the people.
Sierra Leone cannot afford to continue suffering under worsening electricity conditions. The road to a brighter future starts with strong leadership, strategic investments, and unwavering commitment to providing reliable power. Now is the time for action, not empty promises.
