In a scathing critique during a recent parliamentary session, Hon. Umpha Gbassay Koroma, the Parliamentary Spokesman for the opposition All Peoples Congress (APC), accused the government of neglecting the basic needs of rural communities by failing to provide them with electricity.

The MP’s comments, delivered on Friday, August 9, 2024, were aimed directly at the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) and the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), which he claims have left many Sierra Leoneans in the dark—both literally and figuratively.

Hon. Koroma argued that access to electricity is fundamental to the social and economic development of any country. He expressed deep concern that many Sierra Leoneans born in rural areas might live their entire lives without experiencing the benefits of electricity due to what he described as “governmental neglect.” “Electricity is more than just power; it’s a human right that underpins our economic and social progress,” Koroma stated. “Yet, countless citizens, especially those in remote villages, will likely die without ever seeing a lit bulb in their homes.”

The remarks were made during the parliamentary confirmation of two presidential nominees: Madam Princess Mayota Baby Rose Jah Turay as Deputy Ambassador to Germany and Ing. Samuel Jusu Alpha as Chairman of the EGTC. Koroma urged the incoming EGTC Chairman to prioritize the expansion of electricity to rural areas, stressing the need for innovative solutions to address the current gaps. He pointed out that the existing focus on urban centers has left rural Sierra Leone in darkness, calling for an urgent reassessment of the nation’s energy priorities.

Koroma also highlighted the potential of alternative energy sources, particularly solar power, as a viable solution to the country’s energy challenges. He suggested that solar energy could offer a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to the traditional reliance on hydroelectric and fossil fuel-powered systems, which are often expensive and difficult to maintain.

As he concluded his address, Hon. Koroma called on the Speaker of Parliament to ensure that the newly approved officials take immediate steps to address the electricity crisis in rural areas. He expressed hope that these leaders would be catalysts for change, pushing forward with initiatives that would finally bring light to Sierra Leone’s most neglected communities.