– In an impactful keynote speech at the National Dialogue on Climate Resilience and Energy Transition, held at the Bintumani International Conference Centre, Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, underscored the essential role of energy in advancing sustainable development across the nation. Themed “From Commitments to Action,” the event gathered global and national stakeholders to address critical topics on climate resilience, energy transition, and the transformative power of energy for economic progress.
Vice President Jalloh opened his address by acknowledging the distinguished audience and emphasized that energy is not merely a resource but a fundamental enabler of national development. Reflecting on the country's energy landscape in 2018, he spoke about the challenges that the current government inherited, including overwhelming electricity debts, limited generation capacity, and an electricity access rate that hovered around 16 to 18 per cent.
“When we assumed responsibility for the energy sector, we were confronted with substantial electricity debts and low access rates that strained the government’s budget and hindered economic expansion,” Jalloh stated. He highlighted the government's achievements in raising electricity access in the Western Area, where capacity has reached 75 to 80 MW. However, he acknowledged that much of the population still lacks consistent power due to insufficient infrastructure.
The Vice President emphasised that advancing sustainable energy infrastructure is pivotal for Sierra Leone’s economic growth, job creation, and reduced import dependency. He pointed out that the high energy cost directly influences business operations and production costs, impacting the economy.
“Energy access has positively transformed small communities in recent years, especially through renewable solutions like solar power. Previously underserved communities are now leveraging solar energy, which fuels local entrepreneurship and stimulates economic activities,” he noted.
Dr Jalloh also highlighted Sierra Leone’s commitment to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy, recognising that investing in clean energy is crucial for combating climate change. Despite ongoing challenges, he assured that the government prioritizes investments in energy infrastructure and climate action.
“We must view energy as a foundation for governance, economic growth, and climate resilience. Sustainable energy solutions that provide widespread access, lower costs, and create new business opportunities, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing, are essential to fulfilling our development goals,” he affirmed.
The national dialogue convened experts from climate, energy, and international relations, providing a platform for African nations like Sierra Leone to explore ways to convert global climate commitments into practical actions encouraging energy transitions and environmental sustainability.
Complementing the Vice President's address, Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, expressed gratitude to Dr. Jalloh for linking energy development to national growth. Dr. Sengeh echoed the importance of climate resilience, especially within the agricultural sector, underscoring the role of sustainable energy in securing the nation’s food security.
Vice President Jalloh concluded his remarks with a call for collaboration among international partners, investors, and local stakeholders to support Sierra Leone’s energy transition. “We need the resources to achieve our ambitions,” he asserted. “This conference represents a critical step toward converting commitments into action and implementing solutions that will secure sustainable growth and resilience for Sierra Leone.”
The Vice President’s address resonated strongly with the audience, emphasising the urgent need to overcome energy challenges, address climate concerns, and promote an inclusive and sustainable path to development.
Aminata Turay
SLENA Correspondent
Office of the Vice President
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