President Julius Maada Bio reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing Sierra Leone’s persistent energy deficit, calling it a cornerstone for the nation’s development.

Speaking at an energy sector retreat on Friday, the President emphasized the urgent need for sustainable and practical solutions to improve electricity access nationwide.

“We understand the problems and have the knowledge to address them,” President Bio said during his keynote address. “Let’s work together to ensure sustainable electricity for the people of Sierra Leone.”

The retreat, held in Freetown, convened key stakeholders, including policymakers, energy experts, and representatives from international organizations. It served as a platform to assess progress, identify obstacles, and outline a coordinated strategy to tackle the country’s long-standing electricity challenges.

Under President Bio’s leadership, Sierra Leone has taken steps to expand renewable energy projects, improve infrastructure, and foster partnerships with global institutions. Despite these efforts, the President acknowledged that more work is needed to meet the growing demand for electricity, essential for both industrial and social development.

“Addressing the energy deficit is not just about providing electricity—it’s about powering businesses, schools, hospitals, and communities,” he said. “This is about creating opportunities for every Sierra Leonean to thrive.”

The retreat highlighted the government’s focus on transparency, innovation, and collaboration to ensure progress. Participants discussed strategies to accelerate renewable energy adoption, attract private sector investment, and enhance grid reliability in urban and rural areas.

The energy crisis has long hindered Sierra Leone’s economic growth, with limited access to electricity affecting businesses and everyday life. President Bio’s administration has prioritized energy reforms as part of its broader agenda for sustainable development and improved quality of life.

As the retreat concluded, stakeholders expressed a renewed determination to work towards achieving reliable and affordable electricity for all. The government’s resolve to confront the energy crisis reflects a critical step toward Sierra Leone’s ambitions for economic transformation and social progress.