By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone is grappling with an energy crisis that has left the country in darkness for extended periods, not only in urban areas but across the provinces as well. This ongoing power cut issue has caused immense hardship for citizens who are already struggling with the lack of basic amenities.
Yet, amidst the national turmoil, President Julius Maada Bio has made multiple trips abroad in search of solutions to the country’s energy woes, with little to show for it. His most recent trip to Barbados for the 2025 Sustainable Energy for All Forum (SEforALL) has sparked widespread frustration among the population. Many see these constant foreign travels as a waste of taxpayers’ money, especially when no tangible improvements are seen in the nation’s energy sector.
Since President Bio assumed office, he has traveled extensively in search of international aid and partnerships to address the electricity shortage plaguing the nation. Each visit is accompanied by optimistic speeches and promises of foreign investment. But upon his return, the status quo remains largely unchanged.
Power outages continue to disrupt daily life, hampering businesses, and leaving citizens without the basic convenience of electricity. Despite the substantial amount of money spent on these foreign trips, Sierra Leoneans are left wondering: where are the results?
The recent trip to Barbados, where President Bio attended the SEforALL Forum, exemplifies the public’s disillusionment. The SEforALL forum is a prestigious international event focusing on sustainable energy solutions. While it may have provided an opportunity for networking and discussions about global energy initiatives, many citizens question whether this forum would bring any real solutions to the country’s energy crisis. Critics are skeptical, and many believe that these international events rarely produce tangible results for developing nations like Sierra Leone.
“How many times has the President traveled to foreign countries to talk about our energy problems?” Asked Mohamed Kalokoh, a business man at Howe Street “Each time, we hear promises of help, but nothing ever changes. The lights still go out, and we’re left struggling. It feels like we’re just paying for his trips, but getting nothing in return.”
The public’s skepticism is not without merit. During President Bio’s tenure, numerous foreign trips have been made, each accompanied by reports of discussions with international partners and organizations. However, for the average Sierra Leonean, these visits have yet to translate into any substantial progress. The power outages continue to be a daily challenge, and the energy infrastructure remains outdated and inefficient. The situation is particularly dire in rural areas, where power cuts are more frequent, and many lack even basic electricity access.
Critics argued that the President’s travels abroad are becoming a symbol of a government out of touch with the pressing needs of its people. While foreign diplomacy and partnerships are important, citizens contend that their immediate needs should take priority. “Why does the President keep traveling if the energy crisis is not improving?” asked another frustrated citizen. “We are in desperate need of action, not just more photos and speeches abroad. Our children can’t even do their homework because of the power cuts, and businesses are suffering.”
The lack of tangible progress in addressing the energy crisis raises questions about the effectiveness of these foreign engagements. While it is essential for a country like Sierra Leone to seek international support and investment, many argue that the government should also focus on local solutions.
Critics point to the need for better management of the country’s existing energy resources, as well as more innovative approaches to renewable energy, which could be harnessed from the abundant sunlight and natural resources in the country. They contend that the government should be working on practical, on-the-ground solutions that directly benefit the people.
Some experts have also pointed to the possibility of mismanagement or corruption, which could be contributing to the failure of foreign investments to translate into real-world results. Transparency in the allocation of funds and resources is a key issue, and many believe that without stronger oversight, foreign aid will continue to be squandered.
As President Bio returns from Barbados, Sierra Leoneans are asking whether this trip will be any different from the countless others that have come before it. Will it result in any meaningful change for the country’s energy crisis, or will it simply be another chapter in a long series of international travels with little impact on the ground? For many, the answer remains uncertain, and the frustrations continue to mount.
In the end, Sierra Leoneans are calling for action. They are no longer satisfied with promises or photo opportunities abroad; they want real solutions that will bring an end to the power cuts and improve the quality of life for all citizens.
Until their demands are met, the disillusionment with the president’s foreign travels is likely to persist, as the people wait for the change they were promised.
