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The newly appointed Minister of Energy, Mr. Cyril Grant, has clarified the leadership structure within the energy sector, stressing that ultimate responsibility now rests with the Ministry following his appointment.
Speaking in an interview on Liberty Online TV, Minister Grant explained that challenges previously encountered in the sector stemmed from a situation where a sector lead effectively assumed ministerial responsibilities. He noted that with the appointment of a substantive minister, accountability and coordination within the Ministry of Energy have now been clearly defined.
According to Mr. Grant, the sector lead, who also heads PIA Craft, will continue to work closely with the ministry in developing the energy sector, but under the overall supervision and coordination of the Minister of Energy.
He further disclosed that while he and Dr. Kandeh Yumkella are collaborating on several energy-related initiatives being spearheaded by Dr. Yumkella, the responsibility for overall coordination remains with the ministry. “Anything that has to do with energy, whether mini-grids or Mission 300, must be coordinated through my office to move forward,” the minister stated.
Minister Grant acknowledged Dr. Yumkella’s strong credibility with donor partners, noting that donors have confidence in him due to his vast experience and international standing. However, he emphasised that such engagements are carried out in close collaboration with the ministry to maintain consistency and institutional credibility.
He added that while Dr. Yumkella may step in on specific aspects of the energy sector, the Minister of Energy retains the responsibility of engaging donor partners. Mr. Grant highlighted Dr. Yumkella’s extensive global network and distinguished résumé, recalling his tenure as Head of Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) at the United Nations.
“Dr. Yumkella came in with a huge and highly respected résumé, and that is impactful. We are working with him because he has relationships that are valuable to the sector,” Minister Grant said.
Drawing a parallel, Mr. Grant recalled that during President Julius Maada Bio’s tenure as Minister of Energy, the government relied heavily on his ability to attract investments and channel them into the energy sector.
The minister reaffirmed that the current approach is one of collaboration, coordination, and clearly defined roles, aimed at strengthening the energy sector and delivering sustainable power solutions for Sierra Leone.
