Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The government of Sierra Leone has dismissed allegations that electricity meant for Makeni was diverted to Freetown, with Deputy Minister of Energy I, Edmond Nonie, describing the claim as unfounded and illogical.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Nonie explained that Freetown requires approximately 100 megawatts of electricity to meet its demand, while Makeni produces only 6 megawatts. He argued that the vast disparity in scale makes any suggestion of diversion unrealistic.
“The government would not deprive one city to supply another,” Nonie assured citizens, emphasizing that the administration remains committed to equitable distribution of resources across the country.
The Deputy Minister also provided an update on recent power outages affecting Makeni and Magburaka, confirming that maintenance work had been completed. He stated that electricity was expected to be restored at the time of his briefing.
The government’s clarification follows weeks of public concern over prolonged blackouts in the northern region. Residents and business owners in Makeni and Magburaka have reported significant disruptions to daily life and economic activity, with some civil society groups accusing authorities of prioritizing Freetown’s electricity needs over those of the north.
The Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) had previously attributed the sharp reduction in supply—from approximately 6 megawatts to 1.9 megawatts—to seasonal environmental conditions, specifically reduced water levels at the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Dam, rather than any administrative decision.
However, some local analysts and stakeholders have questioned that explanation, recalling a 2021 incident in which a standby generator meant for Makeni was relocated to another region, an action that sparked civil unrest and resulted in the deaths of six people, including a 14-year-old boy.
While EDSA has pledged to maintain open communication with civil society and the public, residents continue to call for long-term solutions to prevent recurring outages, citing the heavy reliance of local economies on stable electricity supply.
The government has reiterated its position that no region will be deprived for the sake of another, and has urged the public to rely on verified information rather than speculation.
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