By Sallieu S. Kanu
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead, has expressed serious concerns about the declining performance of the Bumbuna Hydropower Dam due to climate change and human activities upstream. Speaking at the Ministry of Energy’s maiden press briefing on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Dr. Yumkella provided a comprehensive update on the state of Sierra Leone’s energy sector.
Challenges in Freetown’s Electricity Supply
Dr. Yumkella highlighted the ongoing electricity challenges in Freetown, describing them as a source of “serious headache and sleepless nights.” He noted that, for the first time in six years, Bumbuna is unable to supply even 1MW of electricity to Freetown. Previously, the dam supplied 14-15MW, with some of the power distributed to Makeni and Magburaka. However, the current water levels have forced a halt in supply to prevent system tripping.
Freetown’s electricity supply now relies heavily on the Karpowership, supplemented by repaired generators at Kingtom and Blackhall Road, which have added 9MW to the grid. Dr. Yumkella reported that Freetown currently receives 67-68MW at night, with an additional 9MW from Makoth during the day.
Sector-Wide Efforts to Address Challenges
Deputy Minister of Energy II, Dr. Rahim Jalloh, echoed concerns about the drop in Bumbuna’s water levels but assured the public that the sector is working tirelessly to address these challenges. Meanwhile, Milton Ngeba, Director General of the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), provided a technical overview of the generation component and its critical challenges.
Call for Environmental Responsibility
Presidential Spokesman, Dr. Alpha Khan, commended Dr. Yumkella and other stakeholders for their dedication to transforming the energy sector despite significant obstacles. He emphasized the detrimental impact of human activities such as mining and deforestation on the environment and called on Sierra Leoneans to desist from such practices.
Energy Sector Reforms and the Feed Salone Agenda
Dr. Yumkella underscored the inextricable link between the energy sector and the Feed Salone agenda, highlighting ongoing reforms aimed at improving energy access and sustainability. He expressed optimism about the sector’s future, despite the current challenges.
The press briefing marked a significant step in fostering transparency and accountability within the energy sector, as stakeholders continue to work toward a more reliable and sustainable energy supply for Sierra Leone.