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As part of his farewell engagements marking the end of his diplomatic mission in Sierra Leone, the outgoing Irish Ambassador, His Excellency Aidan Fitzpatrick, paid a courtesy visit to Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security (PI-CREF) and Energy Sector Lead.
During the visit, Ambassador Fitzpatrick expressed deep appreciation for the fruitful collaboration he and his team have enjoyed over the years with Dr. Yumkella and key stakeholders in the energy sector. “You are indeed the energy man,” Ambassador Fitzpatrick remarked. “It has been a great honour and pleasure working with you and your dedicated team at PI-CREF and across the wider energy sector.”
The Ambassador highlighted the progress made through Ireland’s support for Sierra Leone’s renewable energy initiatives, in collaboration with other partners. In particular, he noted the achievements of the Lite Salone Project, launched earlier this year in Kambia District, which is aimed at expanding clean and affordable energy access in underserved communities.
Ambassador Fitzpatrick stated that the project had recorded significant progress and would soon be extended to additional districts across the country.
He also referenced Ireland’s partnership with DelAgua, a company working on clean cooking stoves. Through this collaboration, improved cook stoves have already been distributed in over five districts, contributing to healthier cooking practices and environmental protection.
Dr. Yumkella thanked the Ambassador for his leadership and steadfast support of Sierra Leone’s energy transformation agenda. “We appreciate your commitment and the legacy you’re leaving behind,” said Dr. Yumkella. “Rest assured, we will continue to build on the foundation you’ve helped establish and expand the good work you’ve started.”
He also briefed the Ambassador on current progress in the energy sector, including gains and plans in generation, transmission, and distribution. He emphasized that the Ministry remains open and proactive in mobilizing investment, particularly in the transmission and distribution components of the sector.
Dr. Yumkella further shared updates on the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) project, a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at accelerating energy access nationwide, echoing the objectives of Ireland’s Lite Salone project.
In closing, Dr. Yumkella extended heartfelt thanks to Ambassador Fitzpatrick for his service and wished him success in his next assignment. He expressed optimism about continued cooperation with the incoming Irish Ambassador to sustain the momentum of Ireland-Sierra Leone partnerships in renewable energy and climate resilience.
