Mr Cyril A. Grant, the newly appointed Minister of Energy, has challenged the leadership of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to step up efforts to make the utility a model institution for the rest of the country. At his first substantive meeting with EDSA management, Minister Grant emphasised the authority’s critical role in the nation’s energy sector and urged renewed focus, teamwork, and strategic cooperation among agencies and personnel.
“EDSA is one of the best and largest institutions in the country and the backbone of the energy sector,” the Minister said, praising the talent, capability, and commitment he saw among employees. He informed the management team that he plans to spend significant time with EDSA to better understand its operations and to support efforts that advance the government’s energy goals.
I know that there are capable, talented, and dedicated people at EDSA. “I truly believe you are committed to achieving Sierra Leone’s energy agenda,” Mr Grant said.
The meeting focused on the importance of collaboration among sector stakeholders.
The Minister stated that energy remains central to the government’s overall development goals and emphasised the importance of coordinated action in meeting those goals. The Minister reminded attendees of President Bio’s emphasis on teamwork during his investiture and explained how that message informs the Ministry’s approach to leadership and reform: “We cannot afford to fail,” he said.
Mr Grant urged EDSA’s management and staff to work with purpose and determination, especially as the country approaches the dry season, when operational pressures typically rise. He encouraged them to be proactive and “bend over backwards” to overcome obstacles and provide dependable service.
Addressing public concerns about privatisation, the Minister stated that the proposed reforms are not intended to cause hardship or inconvenience to consumers or employees. He reiterated that ongoing energy sector reforms are consistent with the Feed Salone agenda and aim to strengthen service delivery while also advancing the country’s energy sovereignty. The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among agencies to achieve common goals.
