AYV News, June 23, 2024
At the Africa Energy Forum, Sierra Leone’s energy sector lead, Alhaji Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, captivated the attention of over 6,000 global energy influencers and investors in Cape Town, South Africa, with a compelling presentation on Sierra Leone’s groundbreaking Mission 300.
His message resonated with clarity and strength: Sierra Leone stands open for business, ready for reform, and eager for transformative partnerships. Mission 300 represents a bold five-year vision aimed at doubling electricity access by 2030, powered by renewable energy, innovative off-grid solutions, and industrial power.
Dr. Yumkella introduced Sierra Leone’s Mission 300 compact to an audience of over 6,000 delegates that includes energy experts, investors, and global development leaders. The presentation conveyed a strong and persuasive message that Sierra Leone is open for business and eager to form genuine partnerships.
The presentation detailed the nation’s ambitious five-year energy plan, which aims to double electricity access by the year 2030. The plan focuses on clean energy sources such as solar and hydro, supports off-grid solutions for isolated communities, and prioritises powering industries like mining and agriculture.
At the core of the Mission 300 compact initiative is a clear objective: to raise nearly $3 billion, including $1 billion from private sector investors. The team highlighted Sierra Leone’s commitment to implementing real reforms and ensuring that energy benefits its people and economy.
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, who is also the Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security (PI-CREF), commended the efforts of Madam Ndeye Sesay and Mr. Pete Kaindaneh, Chief Technical Adviser at PI-CREF, for their exceptional presentation.
“This is a collaborative effort,” Dr. Yumkella stated. “We are working closely with the Minister of Finance, Mr. Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, who also serves as the Minister of Energy.”
The initiative is supported by prominent international organizations, including the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), and the Rockefeller Foundation.
Mission 300 is about more than just providing electricity. It aims to create jobs, stimulate industrial growth, and unlock opportunities for all Sierra Leoneans. From revamping power lines and increasing access to supporting local businesses and farmers, the plan is practical and focused on people.
The private sector’s response has been positive, with many investors showing strong interest in joining Sierra Leone’s energy journey.
As Dr. Yumkella concluded, “This is Mission Possible. Let’s power the future together.”
