By: Audrey Raymonda John
In many impoverished rural communities across Sierra Leone, access to electricity remains a major challenge. This lack of power not only restricts educational opportunities especially for children who help their parents on farms during the day but also hampers evening activities, social engagement, and community safety.
In response to this persistent challenge, Andrew Conteh, a native of Patifu Mayawa Village in Yele Chiefdom, Tonkolili District, has made a significant impact by donating solar street lights to 63 villages across the region.
Speaking at a well-attended event on Saturday, 19 April 2025, at the Mayawa Community Center, Mr. Conteh said the initiative was a joint effort between him and his children, aimed at lifting their people out of darkness and improving their quality of life.
“These solar street lights will not only enhance safety by deterring criminal activity, but they will also enable children to study at night and support social and economic activities within the communities,” he stated.
Mr. Conteh explained that for the solar panels to function optimally, they must be positioned to receive sufficient sunlight during the day in order to generate electricity at night. He emphasized the sustainability of the initiative, noting the environmental friendliness and long-term benefits of the lights.
John Reginald Conteh, who chaired the event, praised the initiative as a transformative venture that would enhance the educational, social, and economic wellbeing of the local people. He noted that this was not the first time Andrew Conteh had extended such generosity, having made similar donations in the past two years benefiting thousands of rural residents.
“Before now, students relied on traditional oil lamps to study. Today, thanks to Andrew Conteh, they now have access to bright solar-powered lighting systems,” John Reginald said. He urged the community to protect the lights from theft and to use them responsibly, especially to support students.
Rosaline Kamara, a student from Mayawa Academy, expressed gratitude for the donation, describing the transformation in her village.
“Before the solar lights, the village looked like a graveyard at night. Now, it feels like a mini city. We no longer need to move to big cities because we have what we need here,” she said joyfully.
Sylvester Sillah, a student of Seventh Day Adventist Secondary School in Yele, added: “We now have the privilege to study at night, stay outdoors longer, and even hold social events without fear of darkness. We thank Andrew Conteh for his extraordinary support.”
The Town Chief of Patifu Mayawa, Chief Brima Kanu, also expressed deep appreciation for the initiative. He noted how the lights have transformed their lives and brought a new sense of pride and belonging to the village.
“I used to go to bed at 7:30 or 8:00 p.m. Now, I can sit outside until midnight. The beauty of my village now rivals many big cities,” Chief Kanu declared proudly.
He also commended Mr. Conteh for donating a plasma TV to the community center, where residents can watch both local and international football matches free of charge.
“Our neighbors come here just to enjoy the games and experience the new atmosphere of our village,” he added.
Chief Kanu concluded by thanking Andrew Conteh and his family for their dedication, sacrifice, and generosity:
“Thank you for helping to brighten the lives of our children and for extending this kindness to over 60 villages. We remain deeply grateful.”
Several local leaders and chiefs from neighboring villages, including the Paramount Chief of Yele Chiefdom, PC Bai Komp Kanasong II, also commended Andrew Conteh’s contributions and appealed for more support to reach other remote communities still without electricity.
