H.E. Zhao Yong, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sierra Leone, paid a courtesy call on Sierra Leone’s Minister of Energy, Mr Cyril Grant, today at the ministry’s headquarters in Freetown. The meeting provided an opportunity for both officials to review recent sector reforms and discuss areas for increased collaboration as Sierra Leone works toward an inclusive energy transition.
Ambassador Zhao reaffirmed China’s commitment to assisting Sierra Leone in expanding access to affordable, dependable electricity, emphasising the importance of energy as a pillar of sustainable development. He stated that China is willing to expand cooperation in renewable energy development, grid modernisation, and capacity building to help implement the government’s Energy Transition Plan.
Minister Grant briefed the Ambassador on ongoing energy sector reforms, including progress in the deployment of solar mini-grids, transmission infrastructure rehabilitation, and government plans to increase generation capacity through public-private partnerships. He emphasised Sierra Leone’s commitment to a fair and inclusive transition that prioritises rural communities’ access while reducing reliance on costly thermal generation.
Both officials praised the existing bilateral partnership and discussed the importance of turning high-level commitments into concrete projects that benefit citizens directly. The meeting was also a timely engagement ahead of the 2026 FOCAC Summit, where energy cooperation is expected to be a top priority on the bilateral agenda. With the energy sector closely linked to national Feed Salone development priorities, both sides expressed a shared desire to accelerate reforms and mobilise resources to expand clean, reliable power across Sierra Leone.
