AYV News, October 19, 2026
Chairman of Sierra Leone’s Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, Hon. Alhaji Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, has moderated presentations by shortlisted candidates for the position of Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
The presentations were made to the IRENA Council during its ongoing 32nd meeting, which has brought together more than 300 energy stakeholders, including government representatives and delegates from countries across the world.
During the session, the shortlisted candidates presented their strategic plans and responded to questions from Council members as part of the selection process for the agency’s next Director-General.
According to the outlined procedure, the Council will make recommendations to the IRENA Assembly in January 2027, when the final decision on the appointment is expected to be made.
The successful candidate will succeed outgoing Director-General Francesco La Camera and lead the international energy agency for a four-year term.
Dr. Yumkella’s selection to moderate the presentations places him in a key role in the international agency’s leadership selection process and highlights his continued engagement in global energy policy and renewable energy development.
His participation also comes as Sierra Leone advances efforts to improve energy access and affordability, expand renewable energy and strengthen the country’s contribution to the global energy transition under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
IRENA, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, promotes international cooperation and partnerships to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy and support climate action, sustainable development, energy security and resilient economies.
The agency has 172 member countries and the European Union, with 12 additional countries in the process of accession.
Dr. Yumkella was accompanied to the session by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates and Permanent Representative to IRENA, Rashid Sesay.
The ongoing Council meeting provides a platform for member countries to review the agency’s work, assess progress and discuss priorities for advancing renewable energy deployment and international energy cooperation.
