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His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, accompanied by his wife, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, officially launched the country’s first gas power generation plant. This significant milestone marks a critical step towards enhancing national energy infrastructure and ensuring a reliable power supply for Sierra Leonean citizens.
The ceremony drew a distinguished audience, including the Honourable Speaker of Parliament, Madam First Lady, Chief Minister, government ministers, Members of Parliament, members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, and representatives from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
During the launch, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio underscored President Bio’s dedication to public service. Emphasizing the importance of electricity for essential services like hospitals, homes, and recreation, she hailed the new plant’s 150-megawatt capacity as a game-changer for the nation’s power grid.
President Bio addressed the gathering, highlighting energy’s critical role in propelling industrial development and economic growth. “Energy is the lifeblood of a modern society,” he stated, “powering our homes, industries, and driving national development programs.” He emphasized that “without energy, we can achieve nothing.”
President Bio described the project as a “beacon of hope” and a symbol of the government’s unwavering commitment to developing a sustainable energy sector. He detailed the 148.5 MW Power Purchase Agreement for the Western Area Power Generation Project, signed in November 2023. This agreement facilitates the construction and commissioning of a state-of-the-art, refined petroleum gas (LPG) plant.
Scheduled for completion within 36 months, the project promises to deliver reliable and affordable electricity to roughly 900,000 new consumers, catalyzing economic growth throughout the Western Territory. “This project harnesses our natural resources,” explained President Bio, “utilizing advanced technology and sustainable practices to meet current energy demands while safeguarding the ability of future generations to meet theirs.”
Furthermore, the President underscored the project’s potential for job creation, particularly among young people. He advocated for leveraging vocational and technical institutions to support such initiatives.
Acknowledging the challenge of balancing energy needs with climate concerns, President Bio reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing renewable energy sources, promoting energy efficiency, and adopting cleaner technologies.
In his closing remarks, President Bio advocated for an effective human resource policy that cultivates Sierra Leonean leadership across all levels, with a focus on training and knowledge transfer. He also encouraged international partners to support environmental and social initiatives within nearby communities.
“Today’s launch marks a new chapter in our nation’s energy journey,” President Bio concluded. “We are not just breaking ground; we are laying the foundation for a brighter and better tomorrow. Together, let us deliver energy to the people of Sierra Leone.”
Credit:
Strategic Communications Division,
Office Of The First Lady,
Republic Of Sierra Leone.
