By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Residents of Maxwell and Caulker Streets in Wellington, and adjacent communities in Freetown have raised alarm over the prolonged blackout that has persisted since January 24, 2025. Frustration and despair are mounting as the power outage enters its second week, leaving citizens grappling with its far-reaching consequences.
Local residents say the sense of hardship is palpable. Many families are struggling to go about their daily lives without power, and the situation has sparked anger and disappointment for the authorities responsible.
Despite multiple reports and appeals from community members for the power outages to be addressed, there has been no response or solution from the relevant authorities.
“It’s been over a week now, and nothing has been done,” lamented Mariama Bangura, a small business owner at Maxwell Street in Wellington. “We’ve reported this blackout over and over again, but it feels like no one is listening to us. My shop depends on electricity to store perishable goods; and now everything has gone to waste. This is affecting not just our businesses but also our families,” she said.
Residents argue that the blackout has disrupted not only their economic activities but also their social well-being. Petty traders and business owners who rely on electricity to power refrigerators, sewing machines, and other essential tools have been hit the hardest, with many losing their primary source of income.
The impact extends beyond financial losses. Parents and students are finding it difficult to navigate daily life in the dark, with children unable to study or complete assignments.
Community members also report feeling unsafe at night, as the darkness increases security risks in an area already grappling with crime.
“We’re scared to even step outside once the sun goes down,” said Abdul Kamara, a youth leader in Caulker Street- Wellington. “The blackout has made the area a haven for thieves. Our streets are dark, and people are afraid to move around. We need the authorities to fix this urgently before something worse happens.”
The repeated appeals to the electricity company and other stakeholders have yielded no results, leaving residents feeling abandoned. Citizens are now calling on the government and utility providers to intervene promptly and restore electricity to their communities. “This is not just an inconvenience; it’s a crisis,” said Kadiatu Sesay, a resident of Caulker Street. “We pay our bills and deserve better. The authorities must act now to address this blackout before it causes more harm to our livelihoods and safety.”
As the blackout drags on, frustration continues to grow, and residents are left with little hope for immediate resolution.
The call for action is louder than ever, as the people of Maxwell and Caulker Streets, and their environs plead for their voices to be heard and for their plight to be resolved
