Joe-Lahai Sormana, EDSA DG
The recent power outage in Freetown has left citizens in a state of frustration and uncertainty, as the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) attempts to downplay the severity of the situation. While EDSA issued a press statement on 16th April 2024, the reality behind the scenes tells a different story.
Insider sources have revealed that the power outage is a result of a significant reduction in supply from the Karpowership, dropping from 65MW to a mere 5MW. This drastic decrease in supply can be directly attributed to the government’s failure to settle outstanding invoices owed to Karpowership, which amount to millions of dollars.
The impact of the blackout has been felt across Freetown, with businesses and households alike struggling to cope with the sudden loss of power. Many families are facing the consequences of the outage, including spoiled food items stored in refrigerators and freezers. The disruption to daily life has been significant, with residents expressing frustration over the lack of a clear resolution to the crisis.
EDSA’s attempts to downplay the situation have only added to the confusion and concern among citizens. While the press statement may suggest that the power outage is a minor issue, the reality on the ground tells a different story. The lack of transparency and accountability from EDSA and the government has only served to exacerbate the crisis and deepen public mistrust.
As Freetown continues to grapple with the ongoing power outage, it is clear that immediate action is needed to address the root causes of the problem. Citizens are calling for accountability and transparency from EDSA and the government, as well as a concrete plan to resolve the situation and prevent similar crises in the future.
In the meantime, residents of Freetown are left to endure the consequences of the power outage, hoping for a swift resolution to bring an end to the disruption and uncertainty that has gripped the city.
