Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Electricity theft remains a pressing challenge in Sierra Leone, undermining the nation’s efforts to expand reliable energy access and maintain sustainable infrastructure.
Recognizing the critical role of digital influencers in shaping public behavior, Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella engaged a group of bloggers on Wednesday, September 3rd, at Electricity House to discuss this urgent issue and explore how they can promote responsible electricity use.
Dr. Yumkella emphasized that combating electricity theft requires collective responsibility and public awareness. He urged the bloggers to become proactive advocates for paying for electricity and eliminating illegal connections, stressing that “EDSA cannot thrive if consumers do not pay for what they use.” He further highlighted that “public cooperation is essential to sustaining and enhancing our energy services,” calling on digital influencers to help spread this vital message.
He also underscored the urgent need to improve energy transmission, pointing out that generation alone is insufficient. “You can produce as much power as you want, but without the infrastructure to transmit it effectively, those efforts are in vain,” he explained. “That’s why we are investing in the construction of both Northern and Southern Corridor transmission lines, along with new substations to connect communities across the nation.”
Dr. Yumkella expressed his gratitude to the bloggers for their participation and recognized their vital role in disseminating important information to the public. “I commend you for the significant work you do,” he stated. He further noted, “In today’s digital age, bloggers are essential in quickly and effectively informing the public. We need your assistance in spreading accurate information and fostering constructive national discussions.”
During the meeting, Dr. Yumkella provided a detailed update on Sierra Leone’s energy landscape, outlining key generation and transmission projects, governance strategies, and ongoing reforms. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding energy access under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio.
“The President’s vision is to double the country’s energy capacity by 2028,” Dr. Yumkella remarked. “We are diligently working to achieve this through a series of strategic energy generation initiatives.”
The bloggers appreciated Dr. Yumkella’s transparency and proactive approach, noting that such direct engagement is uncommon among government officials.
Dr. Yumkella engaged with the audience by addressing their inquiries, incorporating their feedback, and considering their suggestions with transparency. He urged them to provide objective and constructive reports, reaffirming his commitment to ongoing transparency and accountability.
“Hold us accountable to our commitments,” he concluded. “But also assist us in communicating the narrative of progress as it unfolds.”
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