World Bank Pledges Continued Support for Sierra Leone’s Energy Sector

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Energy Governance Coordination Group (EGCG) has met with a delegation from the World Bank, led by senior energy specialist Paul Kagaba, at Electricity House in Freetown.

The meeting focused on updating Dr. Yumkella, who also chairs the Energy Governance Coordination Group (EGCG), on World Bank-funded energy projects and reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s energy goals.

Paul Kagaba explained that the purpose of the visit was to discuss various World Bank-funded projects, including ESLEAP and RESPITE. He noted that the ESLEAP project had experienced budget shortfalls and that discussions centered on reallocating funds between project components.

“The World Bank has held discussions with relevant institutions and has explored areas of intervention, including the 33KV line, and we have positively engaged EDSA on this,” Kagaba stated. He also reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to providing continuous technical and financial support to the Ministry and the country.

Anshul Rana, another World Bank energy specialist, emphasized the Bank’s demonstrated interest in Sierra Leone’s energy sector and its efforts to ensure the full implementation of funded projects.

In response, Dr. Kandeh Yumkella thanked the World Bank on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, highlighting electricity as a critical driver of national development. He acknowledged the World Bank’s crucial role in helping Sierra Leone harness its energy potential, recognizing the current energy crisis and the need for proactive measures ahead of the dry season. He requested continued support from the World Bank and assured them that concrete steps were being taken to prepare for the dry season.

Dr. Yumkella outlined several ongoing projects and discussed the Ministry’s efforts to improve the financial and technical viability of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). He assured the World Bank team of the Ministry’s and sector players’ commitment to collaboration.

Dr. Joe Lahai, Director General of EDSA, discussed the operations and challenges of EDSA and the World Bank projects, affirming EDSA’s commitment to scaling up nationwide electricity access and expressing gratitude for the Bank’s support.

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