By Mohamed Lamin Massaquoi & Cyril Barnes
In his visit to Kambia town yesterday, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio presided over the presentation of a two (2) megawatts generator that will provide 24 hours electricity to the entire Kambia District for the first time in over thirty (30) years. This move is part of the New Direction government’s efforts to provide reliable and sustainable electricity to every part of Sierra Leone.
Kambia is a business hub that offers trading links between Sierra Leone and other countries in the sub-region. It is also known for its fisheries and agricultural potentials. The provision of electricity to Kambia will stimulate trade and investment in the agricultural sector through preservation of farm products, value addition of foodstuff and boost small scale businesses in the district.
Fatu is a middle-age woman and a resident of Kambia. She is a fish trader with five staff under her watch. She said the lack of electricity in the district over the years has been a great challenge to the growth of her business as it is for many of her colleagues. She noted it is difficult to get ice to preserve their fish, which always results in financial loss.
“But today, we are happy that the generator, which will change our story, is here. We have seen that most of the work is completed and we are now eager to see its final completion so we can start enjoying electricity for the first time. We are happy that this will enhance the preservation of our fish and increase our businesses so we can take care of our families. We thank the Government for this great improvement,” ended Fatu, wearing a winsome smile as a show of gratitude and excitement.
It could be noted that since his assumption of office as President in 2018, the Bio-led government has expanded energy access from around 16% to over 34% in just five years. More than forty (40) cities, towns and villages now enjoy uninterrupted electricity than ever in the history of Sierra Leone.
