By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The leadership of the Bo District Council has held a strategic engagement with a delegation of Chinese experts to identify suitable locations for the installation of solar-powered streetlights across communities in Bo District.
The initiative forms part of a nationwide package of 1,500 solar streetlights donated by the Government of China to the Government of Sierra Leone. The intervention is a sub-project under a broader development cooperation framework aimed at supporting the construction of ultra-modern markets equipped with boreholes and other essential public amenities.
According to officials, the solar streetlight project is intended to improve safety and security in communities with limited or no access to public lighting, particularly along major roads, public spaces, and densely populated areas within Bo District.
Following the engagement meeting, the delegation of Chinese experts, accompanied by the District Council’s Environmental and Social Officer, proceeded on field visits to begin a comprehensive assessment exercise. The assessment is expected to determine strategic locations for the installation process, which is scheduled to commence later in 2026.
Authorities disclosed that the assessment exercise will continue over the coming days, with technical teams expected to engage local communities and evaluate priority areas that stand to benefit most from the project.
Residents and stakeholders within the district have been encouraged to cooperate fully with the assessment team and provide the necessary support needed to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.
The solar streetlight intervention further highlights the growing bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and China, a partnership that has continued to deliver developmental benefits across several sectors over the years.
Speaking on behalf of the people of Bo District, local authorities expressed appreciation to both governments for what they described as a timely and impactful intervention that directly addresses the pressing needs of local communities.
Once fully implemented, the project is expected to improve visibility, strengthen public safety, and support socio-economic activities across benefiting communities.