By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone – September 24, 2025: Amid persistent blackouts plaguing Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, a World Bank team led by Senior Energy Specialist Paul Kagaba met with the Chairman of the Energy Governance Coordination Group (EGCG), Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, to update him on World Bank-funded projects and reaffirm the Bank’s commitment to supporting the country’s energy goals. The meeting took place at Electricity House in Freetown.
During the meeting, Paul Kagaba emphasized that the team’s visit was a courtesy call aimed at having candid discussions with the Ministry of Energy on various World Bank-funded projects, such as ESLEAP and RESPITE. He highlighted the need to reallocate funds within the ESLEAP project to address budget shortfalls and mentioned the possibility of extending support to the mini-grid domain. Kagaba also noted that the World Bank had engaged with relevant institutions to explore areas of intervention, including the 33KV line, and had positively engaged with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA).
“We are pleased with the progress of these projects and remain committed to providing both financial and technical support,” Kagaba concluded.
Energy Specialist at the World Bank, Anshul Rana, reiterated the Bank’s dedication to Sierra Leone’s energy sector and its efforts to ensure the successful implementation of funded projects.
In response, Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the EGCG, expressed gratitude to the World Bank on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio. He acknowledged the critical role of electricity in national development and recognized the World Bank’s significant contributions to Sierra Leone’s energy sector.
Dr. Yumkella highlighted the current energy crisis and the urgency of implementing measures ahead of the dry season. He appealed for continued World Bank support and assured that concrete steps were being taken to prepare for the upcoming challenges.
Dr. Yumkella outlined several ongoing projects and discussed initiatives to enhance EDSA’s financial and technical viability. He assured the World Bank team of the Ministry’s and sector stakeholders’ full commitment to collaboration.
Director General of EDSA, Dr. Joe Lahai, provided insights into EDSA’s operations and challenges and commended the World Bank for its unwavering support. He emphasized EDSA’s dedication to expanding nationwide access to electricity and the reforms underway in the energy sector.
The World Bank’s continued support and collaboration with Sierra Leone remain pivotal in addressing the country’s energy challenges and advancing its development goals.