By: Aminata Sesay
In a unanimous decision, the Parliament of Sierra Leone ratified two landmark energy agreements aimed at significantly expanding electricity access across rural communities in the country on 10th July 2025.
The approved agreements are: The African Development Fund Project Preparation Agreement for the Sierra Leone Rural Electricity Access Project (SLREAP), signed on January 15, 2025.
The Subsidiary Grant Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone, represented by the Ministries of Finance and Energy, for the preparatory phase of SLREAP.
These agreements represent a collaborative commitment between the government and international development partners to address long-standing electricity gaps, particularly in underserved rural areas.
While presenting the agreements in Parliament, Deputy Minister of Finance I, Kadiatu Allieu, emphasized the strategic importance of SLREAP in achieving national development goals. She explained that the initiative aims to modernize the energy infrastructure, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the quality of life in rural communities.
Hon. Alhaji Keikura Vandi, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, hailed the agreements as transformative. He highlighted the challenges rural communities face due to inadequate electricity and detailed the project’s technical scope, including the rollout of kilovolt (kV) transmission lines nationwide.
“This initiative is not partisan it is in the supreme interest of national development,” Hon. Vandi declared.
Parliamentarians from both the ruling party and opposition echoed similar sentiments. Hon. Tamba Kellie (Kono District) urged MPs to set aside political differences and support initiatives that directly improve citizens’ lives, describing rural electrification as a foundation for economic growth, education, and healthcare delivery.
Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargo, offered full support for the agreements while urging the government to establish a strong implementation framework. He also recommended exploring additional financing mechanisms during the execution phase, with a focus on accountability and transparency.
Responding on behalf of the executive, Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, confirmed the formation of a Special Implementation Unit within the Ministry of Energy to oversee project delivery. He assured Parliament that following this preparatory phase, full implementation will align with the nation’s broader energy expansion strategy.
“This ratification is not just about energy it is about equity, opportunity, and transformation for rural Sierra Leone,” Hon. Silikie concluded.
With cross-party consensus and unanimous parliamentary approval, the ratification of these energy agreements marks a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s long-term effort to close the energy access gap. The move sets the stage for increased connectivity, economic inclusion, and improved living standards in rural areas across the country.