AYV News, May 22, 2026
The Energy4Business project has officially been launched in Sierra Leone, with stakeholders describing the initiative as a major step toward improving energy access, economic resilience, and sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
Speaking at the launch, Philippe Labbe-Lavigne, Country Representative for Geres, said the project adopts an integrated approach that combines improvements in energy supply with the strengthening of production resources and entrepreneurial capacity among local populations.
According to him, the project is designed as a pilot initiative built around three key objectives aimed at promoting sustainable energy access and economic empowerment.
He explained that the project seeks to provide technical solutions for energy access and energy efficiency tailored to Energy Producing Users, while ensuring economic viability and inclusive management systems.
Labbe-Lavigne added that the initiative is also intended to improve economic resilience, contribute to food security, and reduce the burden of labour on women by supporting economic activities that depend on electricity access.
He further noted that the project aims to ensure the recognition and sustainability of successful pilot models while contributing to advocacy efforts and the dissemination of best practices.
“This project offers technical and practical solutions that can strengthen communities and support sustainable economic development,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, Raphael Accart, West Africa Director for Geres, reiterated that the Energy4Business project combines energy improvements with efforts to strengthen productive capacity and entrepreneurship within beneficiary communities.
He explained that the initiative represents the first project implemented by Geres in Sierra Leone and will test approaches adapted to different environments and categories of actors.
According to Accart, the pilot models developed during the implementation phase will later be refined and replicated in forms best suited to the realities and challenges identified on the ground.
Representing the Government of Sierra Leone, JenebaAlharazim, Director of Agribusiness and Private Sector at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, commended the initiative and emphasized the importance of energy access in supporting agriculture, food security, and private sector growth.
Stakeholders at the launch described the project as an important intervention capable of promoting inclusive development, strengthening rural livelihoods, and supporting sustainable economic opportunities across Sierra Leone.
