FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – On September 27, 2024, the United States Millenium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the government of Sierra Leone signed a compact agreement to strengthen Sierra Leone’s energy sector. The compact, which includes US$480 million in grant funding from the United States as well as an additional US$14.2 million contribution from the Government of Sierra Leone, is a vital step toward fostering sustainable economic growth and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
The compact addresses pressing energy transmission challenges by enhancing the availability of and access to affordable and reliable electricity for households, businesses, and social institutions.
“This compact is a testament to the strong partnership between the United States and Sierra Leone,” said U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan Hunt. “By investing in the country’s energy infrastructure, we will contribute to overcoming the obstacles to both human development and private sector-driven economic growth, creating a more prosperous and thriving Sierra Leone.”
Sierra Leone’s eligibility for the compact remains dependent on the country’s sustained commitment to advancing democracy, combatting corruption, and investing in its people. Sierra Leone will need to continue to meet eligibility benchmarks in these areas throughout the life of the compact, including the full and expeditious implementation of both the Agreement for National Unity and the joint recommendations of the Tripartite Committee. Cooperation between the ruling Sierra Leone Peoples Party and the opposition All Peoples Congress on adopting recommended electoral and constitutional reforms and achieving justice and accountability for violence related to the 2023 electoral cycle will be key to this effort.
The U.S. government remains steadfast in its support of Sierra Leone as it seeks to build a more robust and resilient energy sector, strengthen its democracy, and ensure a brighter future for all Sierra Leoneans.