By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a recent interview with Africa Young Voices Television, Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Chairman of Sierra Leone’s Energy Governance Coordinating Group (EGCG), outlined the significant progress made in the country’s energy sector during his first eight months in office on July 8, 2025.
Appointed by President Julius Maada Bio as the inaugural Chairman of the EGCG and Lead of the country’s Energy Reform Team, Dr. Yumkella reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to addressing Sierra Leone’s long-standing electricity crisis one that has hindered national development for decades.
“My passion to help resolve this energy crisis is immeasurable. I was honored to be called upon to serve in this capacity,” Dr. Yumkella said.
Dr. Yumkella highlighted several achievements under his leadership, emphasizing strategic partnerships and increased financial commitments aimed at revitalizing the energy landscape.
One of the most notable accomplishments is the mobilization of over $850 million in funding pledges from international development partners, including multilateral institutions and global energy stakeholders.
“We’ve mobilized over $850 million in pledges some of which are already being disbursed to support and transform the energy sector,” he noted.
Among these financial breakthroughs is a $250 million energy transformation agreement secured through the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID), which was signed by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance. This agreement is expected to make a significant impact on improving electricity generation and access across the country.
Dr. Yumkella also cited ongoing engagements with international partners such as the World Bank, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, and other key players, reinforcing his dedication to global cooperation for national progress.
Addressing public and media expectations, Dr. Yumkella urged that his performance be evaluated in due time.
“If I am to be judged fairly, let that be after I leave office perhaps by 2026. Only then can the full scope of my work be assessed,” he remarked.
Drawing from his previous role as Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), where he contributed to energy access in various countries, Dr. Yumkella expressed his deep personal motivation to bring similar progress to Sierra Leone.
“I’ve helped light up other nations. Now, lighting up my own country is a top priority,” he stated. “I will use my decades of experience, networks, and expertise to reposition Sierra Leone’s energy sector as a model in the region.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude for the strong support he receives from President Bio and other stakeholders, vowing to intensify efforts to solve the country’s chronic electricity challenges.