The Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) and the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), has announced the commencement of its annual maintenance activities on the Bumbuna Hydro-Electric Power Dam from Monday, 19th May to Thursday, 29th May 2025.
The announcement follows a strategic meeting held on 12th May 2025, chaired by the Deputy Minister II of Energy, Dr. Jalloh, at the Ministry’s conference room, where key updates and mitigation plans were discussed with EDSA and EGTC officials.
Dr. Jalloh disclosed that, as part of the scheduled maintenance, the Bumbuna Hydro Plant would be temporarily shut down for ten days. This will affect electricity supply to Makeni, Magburaka, and parts of the Western Area, including Freetown.
He emphasised the need for proactive public awareness, particularly for residents in Makeni and Magburaka, who are expected to experience the most significant impact.
To mitigate power disruptions, the ministry confirmed that Karpowership would increase its generation capacity to help fill the supply gap. Freetown, in particular, will continue to receive electricity through the combined support of Karpowership and the Nigata generator at Kingtom.
“The Ministry regrets any inconvenience this may cause and calls on all customers—especially those in the north and western regions—to exercise patience as we carry out these necessary maintenance activities,” said Dr. Jalloh. “This annual shutdown is critical to ensuring the long-term reliability, stability, and safety of the national electricity grid.”
The ministry assures the public that power supply will resume to normal levels following the successful completion of the maintenance works and reactivation of the Bumbuna Hydro Plant.
