The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Wang Qing, paid a courtesy call on the Energy Sector Lead, Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, on Thursday, 27th March, 2025, at the Ministry of Energy’s Conference Room to highlight China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and supports for Sierra Leone’s energy ambitions.

Ambassador Wang expressed satisfaction with the growing partnership between China and Sierra Leone, describing the engagement as a fruitful or productive and mutually beneficial meeting, noting that the Sector Lead has made a name and reputation for himself and Sierra Leone at global level, thus emphasizing confidence in his ability to lead the energy sector effectively.

During the discussions, the Ambassador underscored the potential for cooperation in several key areas, including renewable energy, hydropower, education, and transmission and distribution infrastructure, signaling China’s readiness to assist in addressing Sierra Leone’s energy challenges.

In response, the Minister of Energy, Dr. Kandeh Yumkella expressed gratitude on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, stating that the energy sector was fully prepared to collaborate with China to achieve the President’s aspirations for energy sovereignty. He provided an overview of Sierra Leone’s energy landscape, acknowledging the complexities involved.

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“We have a lot of problems to solve. The energy sector, as it is in other countries, is always complicated. It needs a clear political will, and that is why the President is holding on to the portfolio,” he explained.

Dr. Yumkella elaborated on the country’s energy transition plan and the development of a 10-year vision aimed at addressing short-term, medium-term, and long-term challenges in energy generation, transmission, and tariff structures. He highlighted plans to establish numerous mini-grids and connect mining sites to the national grid to bolster the extractive industry.

“Very soon, we shall work on a China-Sierra Leone Energy Roundtable,” Dr. Yumkella concluded, signaling the next steps in the collaboration.