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Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead, emphasized the need for inclusivity and collaboration for energy reforms during a crucial meeting with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) and major power consumers.
The event, recently held at the Bintumani International Conference Centre, aimed to outline a reform strategy as Sierra Leone seeks to reduce its reliance on emergency power sources, such as the Karpowership, and align with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for a sustainable energy future.
“This is a revolution, but we have to be inclusive because the change must happen,” Dr. Yumkella stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation as the country grapples with energy security challenges.
He assured stakeholders that EDSA is committed to aggressive reforms to address the substantial losses currently plaguing the authority. “We are determined under the leadership of President Bio to change the drastic losses of EDSA,” he added.
Dr. Yumkella addressed concerns regarding the anticipated reduction in power supply from the Karpowership, assuring participants that only 15% of Freetown’s electricity would be affected. He emphasized that measures are in place to mitigate this impact, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring reliable power access for all citizens.
During the session, EDSA Board Chairman, Ing. Andrew Keilie, provided a candid overview of the electricity sector’s current state, acknowledging the challenges posed by high technical and commercial losses, which exceed 50%. He pointed out that electricity theft, often involving insiders, exacerbates the situation. Despite these hurdles, Keilie expressed optimism about the potential of upcoming solar projects to diversify the energy mix.
“We want increased and efficient access to electricity,” Keilie urged, calling on all stakeholders, especially large consumers, to adhere to regulations and avoid illegal connections. He noted that EDSA is focused on creating greater access to affordable electricity while committing to public information and safe practices.
EDSA’s Chief Financial Officer, Abu Mattai, introduced new financial processes aimed at improving billing and collection efficiency. He stressed the importance of timely payments to sustain and upgrade power infrastructure, while Deputy Minister 1 of the Ministry of Energy, Ing. Edmond Nonie, presented the “Feet on the Street 2025” initiative, which targets revenue normalization through improved metering.
“We have 1,200 bulk smart meters ready for installation,” Nonie announced, indicating a nationwide effort to modernize metering and enhance control over electricity usage. He reiterated President Bio’s directive to significantly reduce losses and protect the national grid from both internal and external threats.
The theme of shared responsibility resonated throughout the engagement, with Dr. Yumkella reiterating that energy security in Sierra Leone depends on collective action. “EDSA is supposed to be a business; we have to run it like a business,” he stated, underscoring the need for a transformation that moves beyond temporary fixes to establish a sustainable energy model.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where EDSA’s senior management addressed inquiries and concerns from high-end customers, fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.
