BudgIT Sierra Leone is deeply concerned about the ongoing electricity crisis in Freetown, which continues to disrupt daily life, hinder economic growth, and pose serious safety risks. Despite efforts by the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to address the issue, including the recent publication of the electricity supply schedule, many residents find the schedule unreliable and misleading.

In the 2024 Budget, the sum of NLe122 million was allocated to the energy sector to improve the energy situation in the country. More so, NLe895 million was allocated as subsidy to EDSA for the payment of outstanding debt to the Independent Power Producers including Karpower and CLSG. Also, the 2024 budget stated that the World Bank, AfDB and the Indian Exim Bank were to contribute NLe1.7 billion for the implementation of energy projects. Despite these proposed investments in 2024, much was not done to address the appalling energy crisis in the country.

In the 2025 National Budget, NLe127.3 million is allocated from the domestic capital budget to the energy sector, with significant investments planned to improve electricity infrastructure and enhance energy generation and transmission. Additionally, the budget mentioned the disbursement of NLe875 million as a subsidy to EDSA to pay outstanding invoices to Karpower, CI-Energy, and TRANSCO-CLSG as Independent Power Producers. Moreover, international partners, including the World Bank, AfDB, and the Indian EXIM Bank, will disburse NLe1.4 billion for several energy projects in Sierra Leone.

However, despite these laudable allocations and investment plans, many in Freetown continue to face electricity shortages, with dire consequences for businesses, education, healthcare, and economic stability. Small businesses reliant on electricity for operations, such as barbershops, cold storage vendors, and printing services, have suffered significant losses. Students struggle to study at night, and healthcare facilities face challenges in delivering critical services. Persistent blackouts drive operational expenses as businesses rely on costly generators, limiting profitability and slowing economic growth.

Energy instability also deters international investments, further slowing Sierra Leone’s economic development. Alarmingly, recent reports of house fires caused by erratic power surges highlight the urgent need for a stable electricity supply.

The Way Forward

BudgIT Sierra Leone urges the government and relevant authorities to take immediate action to mitigate this crisis. Some critical steps include:

• Transparent Communication: EDSA must provide an honest and accurate electricity supply schedule, ensuring citizens can plan accordingly.
• Investment in Infrastructure: Allocations in the 2025 National Budget must be effectively implemented to improve electricity generation and distribution.
• Emergency Response Measures: Immediate intervention is needed to address the rising fire incidents caused by unstable power supply.
• Accountability and Oversight: Authorities must ensure that the energy sector operates with efficiency and transparency to prevent further crises.

The citizens of Sierra Leone deserve a reliable electricity supply to support their daily lives and economic aspirations. It is time for action, not just words, to light up Freetown and the rest of the country. At BudgIT Sierra Leone, we stand ready to support the journey toward accountability by empowering citizens with accessible information and advocating for stronger governance systems. Together, we can ensure that Sierra Leone’s resources are managed responsibly, paving the way for sustainable development and prosperity.

Brima Sesay
 Country Lead, BudgIT Foundation Sierra Leone
Email: [email protected]
Contact: +23272141811