By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) has officially commissioned a new 33kV electricity line connecting Kenema and Bo City, marking a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to improve power supply reliability in the southern region.
The new transmission line replaces the ageing 33kV line that was constructed in 1985 and has since become a major source of concern due to frequent faults and breakdowns. For decades, residents and businesses in Bo City have endured persistent electricity disruptions, often caused by the deteriorating condition of the old line.
In a statement released on October 14, 2025, EDSA announced that the new line has been successfully tested and is now fully operational. The authority said the commissioning will drastically reduce power outages, improve voltage stability, and ensure more consistent electricity delivery to households, institutions, and industries within Bo and surrounding communities.
“We recognize the challenges this has posed for consumers, and we are pleased to inform you that the commissioning of the new line will significantly enhance the reliability of electricity in the region,” the statement read.
Over the past month, EDSA engineers have been conducting rigorous tests on the new line to ensure its safety, efficiency, and capacity to meet growing energy demands. According to EDSA, the results have been positive, with the line demonstrating steady and uninterrupted power flow throughout the testing period.
“This development is fantastic news for all consumers in Bo City as it promises to deliver a more stable and efficient electricity supply,” the statement added.
The upgrade comes as part of EDSA’s broader modernization and infrastructure improvement program aimed at strengthening the national electricity grid. The authority has been working closely with the Ministry of Energy and development partners to replace outdated infrastructure, expand access to electricity, and promote energy sustainability across the country.
EDSA officials say the new Kenema–Bo line will not only enhance power distribution in the southern region but also support future expansion projects, including connecting nearby districts and boosting industrial growth. The improved reliability of electricity is expected to benefit key sectors such as education, health, manufacturing, and small-scale businesses that have long struggled with inconsistent power supply.
“We are actively working on further advancements within the electricity sector to ensure that our consumers benefit from a reliable and uninterrupted power supply,” the release stated, reaffirming the authority’s commitment to continuous service improvement.
EDSA expressed gratitude to residents for their patience during the period of transition and urged consumers to use electricity responsibly. The authority also pledged to maintain transparency and efficiency in its operations as it continues to implement nationwide projects aimed at enhancing the country’s power infrastructure.
With the commissioning of the new 33kV line, EDSA has taken a decisive step toward achieving a more dependable and resilient electricity network, one that brings Sierra Leone closer to its goal of universal energy access and sustainable national development.
