By: Saidu Jalloh

The Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Hon. Kenyeh Barlay has delivered remarks at the inception workshop for the review of the 2017 feasibility study of the Singimi Hydropower Dam on Wednesday 29th January 2025.

The workshop, held at the MoPED Conference Hall at Tower Hill, was a joint effort between the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development and the Ministry of Energy.

The event brought together key technical experts from the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Water Resources, and MoPED, as well as other relevant stakeholders. The primary objective of the workshop was to revisit and update the original feasibility study in preparation for the eventual implementation of the Moyamba/Singimi Hydropower Dam project.

The Government of Sierra Leone has been collaborating with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) since 2012 to develop a 10-megawatt hydropower project at Singimi Falls, located on the Gbangba River. The project, which is envisioned as a public-private partnership, aims to provide renewable energy to Moyamba District, Njala University, Sierra Rutile, and surrounding areas.

The review of the feasibility study is considered a critical step in transforming the Singimi Hydropower project from a conceptual idea to a viable and actionable investment. The updated study will assess the site’s viability, address potential risks, and explore opportunities to attract the necessary investment for the project’s implementation.

In her remarks, Minister Barlay commended the Ministry of Energy for its dedication to advancing the Singimi Hydropower project. She praised the ministry’s readiness and accountability in fulfilling its role and described the collaboration between MoPED and the Ministry of Energy as an exemplary model of effective inter-ministerial teamwork.

“This is a new dawn for Sierra Leone,” Minister Barlay stated. “As we implement the Mid-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024–2030, this project aligns with the government’s ‘Big Five Game Changers,’ particularly Game Changer 4 and Enabler 1. The government is committed to seeking innovative funding solutions to bring the Singimi project to life.”

The Minister highlighted the significance of the project in strengthening Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure and addressing the country’s growing energy demands. She emphasized that the Singimi Hydropower Dam would not only provide electricity to Moyamba District and surrounding areas but also drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve living standards.

“This project represents a top priority for the government,” she stressed. “It offers an excellent renewable energy solution, particularly for rural electrification and supporting productive uses. Reliable, low-cost energy from local renewable resources can transform our communities and accelerate national development.”

Minister Barlay also stressed the importance of considering the social impacts of the project and ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources. She reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to national planning and resource management, with a focus on expanding energy access throughout the country.

Consultant Wilbourne Showers, who is involved in the review process, shared insights into the scope and objectives of the updated feasibility study. He outlined key considerations, including potential risks such as nearby mining activities and deforestation of water catchment areas.

During the workshop, participants discussed these risks and worked on developing actionable measures for their mitigation. Representatives from various ministries and agencies emphasized the need for an integrated approach to address these challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of the project.

The Singimi Hydropower Dam project presents a significant opportunity for Sierra Leone to tap into its renewable energy potential and promote sustainable development. With the government’s steadfast commitment, the realization of the project holds the promise of driving energy access, economic growth, and national development across the country.

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