Dr. Yumkella Speaks Tough… Emphasized President’s Commitment to Breaking Emergency Power Cycle.

FEATURE

 

Dr. Yumkella Speaks Tough… Emphasized President’s Commitment to Breaking Emergency Power Cycle.

 By: Musa Kamara

February 20, 2025 – Freetown, Sierra Leone: Speaking on AYV Television, Alhaji Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security (PI-CREF) who doubles as Chairman of the Energy Governance Coordinating Group spearheading the country’s energy sector has emphasized President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to break the cycle of emergency power and resort to a more sustainable and independent source of power for the country.

Speaking at the AYV Wake Up Sierra Leone Program on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Dr. Yumkella addressed the pressing issue of emergency power in Sierra Leone, noting that the current administration was determined to break free from this "vicious circle." Stressing that, to do achieve that transition, “there is going to be some pain, but we have to weed ourselves off the 20 years of emergency power.”

The cycle of emergency power, which has been a recurring issue for the country, often results in unreliable electricity and energy crises that affect both the private and public sectors. Dr. Yumkella highlighted the government's efforts in improving the energy sector by ensuring the country has sources of energy generation on its own. He stated that, the government has already repaired the Kingtom generator, which is currently producing 10 megawatts, and there is ongoing work to repair the generator at Black Hall road that will add to the energy generation for the capital city, Freetown.

“President Bio has shown clear determination to break the circle of emergency power in the country,” Dr. Yumkella said. “It’s not only about providing temporary solutions to the energy crisis but about finding long-term, sustainable solutions that can create stability for the people of Sierra Leone.” He furthered that, “When you have blackout, do not panic, the goal is to transition from energy emergency to sustainable means of energy supply, that is why the President has launched the Energy Transition Plan.”

The issue of frequent power outages and the reliance on emergency power sources has long been a challenge in Sierra Leone, severely affecting businesses and daily life. During the program, Dr. Yumkella emphasized the importance of diversifying the nation’s energy sources and building infrastructure that can support the growing demand for electricity. He revealed that, by early next year, there would be good signs of constant and sustainable electricity calling on the nation to not judge him and his colleagues now, but later.

Dr. Yumkella also touched on the need for investment in renewable energy solutions, including solar and hydro power, as part of the broader strategy to ensure energy security. He emphasized the government's steps toward modernizing the energy grid and increasing access to power across the country, particularly in rural areas.

“There is no question that the energy sector needs urgent attention,” he said. “However, we cannot simply focus on short-term fixes. A more strategic and sustainable approach is required, one that will guarantee reliable power for all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of where they live.”

Whiles there has been significant challenges and criticism over energy shortages, efforts has also been made to improve the sector. In recent months, new projects aimed at expanding energy generation capacity have been rolled out, and the government has secured international support to enhance the grid.