Africa-Press – Liberia. Thanks to electric light, people’s lives were no longer governed by daylight; instead, they could determine their own daily rhythm.” — Vattenfall.
Criticism, while often uncomfortable, serves as a necessary diagnostic tool, much like pain signaling an injury. However, its full value is unlocked only when paired with a respectful, solution-oriented approach.
Winston Churchill: The essential role of criticism is compared to pain, necessary for identifying problems.
Frank A. Clark: Suggested criticism should be gentle enough to nurture growth without causing damage.
LeBron James sees criticism as a source of strength, and it is often noted that being open to constructive criticism is key to growth.
“Electricity is central to nearly all aspects of our lives. It brings about a sea change to the quality of life, ranging from: Surviving childhood, Drinking cleaner water, Learning to read, Greater efficiency, Safety, A cleaner environment.” — POWER Magazine.
“Without electricity, women and girls must spend hours fetching water, clinics can not store vaccines for children, and many schoolchildren can not do homework at night.” — United Nations Sustainable Development.
Haemin Sunim noted that criticism without a solution serves only to inflate the critic’s ego.
In one of my jurisprudence (Family law) classes, I learned that a core principle is to respect peers and deliver constructive criticism politely. Respect motivates the use of tactful and helpful phrasing.
By: Austin S Fallah – A True Son of the Planet Earth Soil: Student of Modern and Contemporary Engineering: [email protected].
Electricity is the lifeblood of modern societies, serving as the foundation for social and economic development.
For developing nations like Liberia, where providing reliable electricity is a monumental challenge, understanding how to achieve a consistent electrical supply is critical.
The issue is deeply rooted in historical mismanagement, ongoing infrastructure deficiencies, and inefficient policies.
However, lessons from countries that have transformed their electricity systems offer a roadmap for Liberia to follow.
Indeed, waiting for international intervention, such as Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) funds and other international assistance, should not be an excuse for inaction.
Instead, Liberia should harness its resources and adopt successful strategies implemented by others that once faced similar challenges.
A prime example of a nation that has successfully transitioned from widespread electricity rationing to a dependable supply is Ghana.
In the early 2000s, Ghana struggled with persistent power outages known as “dumsor,” leaving citizens and businesses in the dark and hampering economic progress.
However, through the development of its energy infrastructure and an integrated approach to investing in hydroelectric, thermal, and renewable energy projects, Ghana has significantly enhanced its electricity generation capacity.
The West African country successfully diversified its energy sources, reducing its reliance on hydropower and improving reliability.
By overcoming initial challenges, Ghana positioned itself as an attractive destination for foreign investment.
Liberia could take a page from Ghana’s playbook by developing its hydroelectric potential.
The nation is endowed with abundant water resources, particularly in central Liberia and the southeastern regions.
Hydroelectric projects, such as the proposed development of the St. John River Basin or the expansion of the Mount Coffee Hydropower Project, could alleviate electricity shortages and provide a reliable supply of electricity to residents and industries.
Foreign developed nations and international agencies such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank could serve as potential partners in these ventures.
Still, it is crucial that Liberia take the initiative rather than wait for external aid to catalyze progress.
Besides developing hydroelectric power, infrastructure improvements, specifically roads, sanitation, and clean water, are essential for fostering social and economic development.
Reliable electricity alone can not drive growth; it must be part of a broader strategy that includes transporting goods, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and providing adequate sanitation.
Countries like Ethiopia have recognized the interconnections between energy supply and comprehensive socio-economic programs.
Following its 2010–2015 Growth and Transformation Plan, Ethiopia invested significantly in energy infrastructure, doubling its electricity generation capacity.
Thus, Liberia’s approach to electricity must not be isolated but integrated with its development goals in health, education, and agriculture to attract investment from various sectors.
To further support this initiative, the privatization of Liberia’s electricity sector should be considered, with the government still retaining a role as a shareholder and regulatory body.
Many nations, including India and Kenya, have found success in liberalizing parts of their energy markets, allowing private sectors to invest in and manage electricity generation and distribution.
This not only incentivizes innovation and efficiency but also invites foreign direct investment, creating a competitive environment for improved services.
By providing a framework for private investment, Liberia can leverage private firms’ expertise and resources to expand electricity access.
Moreover, an effective public relations strategy is vital to attract international investors.
Countries that have showcased their potential through marketing and branding have seen substantial capital inflow.
For instance, Jamaica has effectively positioned itself as a leader in renewable energy within the Caribbean, attracting investment by communicating its policy objectives and the stability of its business environment.
Liberia can emulate this approach by highlighting its natural resources, growing market potential, and project opportunities to overseas investors.
Comprehensive marketing efforts that demonstrate the government’s commitment to energy stability and economic growth can facilitate partnerships that foster electricity generation and distribution.
In recent years, the spotlight on renewable energy has grown, and Liberia is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
The global energy landscape is shifting toward more sustainable energy solutions, and countries are increasingly eager to invest in clean energy projects.
By developing a clear strategy that integrates renewable energy with traditional generation methods, Liberia can attract modern investors.
The construction of solar energy projects, for example, can provide decentralized energy, which can be particularly advantageous in remote areas.
Countries like Bangladesh have effectively utilized solar home systems, allowing millions to access electricity where grid connectivity is limited.
In addition to physical infrastructure investments, forming strategic alliances and partnerships with global energy firms can help Liberia leapfrog its electricity challenges.
Collaborating with experienced firms that have successfully implemented energy projects in similar contexts could provide Liberia with technology transfers, operational best practices, and localized expertise.
My research has shown that countries like Rwanda have benefited from such partnerships, which have helped them to establish a reliable energy sector in a relatively short time.
Continuous engagement with various stakeholders, including local communities and civil society, is also fundamental.
Any initiative to improve electricity in Liberia must involve comprehensive consultations that take into account the perspectives and needs of those affected.
By fostering an environment of transparency and participation, the government can build trust, ensure public buy-in for projects, and ultimately create more enduring solutions.
Ultimately, Liberia’s journey towards achieving consistent electricity should not be solely reliant on international aid; instead, it requires a multifaceted approach that considers infrastructure development, market liberalization, and strategic partnerships.
By leveraging local and international resources and expertise, and by employing proven strategies used by countries that have successfully navigated similar challenges, Liberia can pave the way toward a brighter, more electrified future.
A concerted effort that prioritizes sound infrastructure investment, diversifies energy sources, and encourages private-sector participation will not only address the immediate electricity crisis but also set the stage for sustainable economic growth and social well-being.
The path is arduous, but successes achieved by others serve as a testament to what can be accomplished with vision, determination, and action.
Source: Liberia news The New Dawn Liberia,
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