By Sulaiman Aruna Sesay

Sierra Leone is currently facing a challenge that is affecting the livelihoods of its citizens, particularly regarding access to food and light. The situation is so dire that it is becoming a national crisis that needs urgent attention from both local and international stakeholders.

The lack of food in Sierra Leone is largely due to climatic and environmental changes that have made it difficult for farmers to cultivate their crops. The country has experienced severe droughts and floods in recent years, which have led to a decrease in food production. In addition, the country’s dependence on subsistence farming means that there is not enough food to sustain the population. This has led to a rise in food shortages and inflation, where the cost of food has increased significantly.

Further exacerbating the situation is the lack of access to electricity in many parts of the country. Sierra Leone’s energy sector is heavily reliant on hydroelectric power, with disruptions in the supply chain leading to power cuts that can last hours or even days. This has been a significant challenge for businesses and households that rely on electricity for their daily activities. The lack of power also affects farmers, as it makes it difficult for them to process their crops, leading to further food waste and economic losses.

The effects of food shortages and lack of electricity are widespread and varied. The most vulnerable groups, such as children under five and pregnant and lactating women, are at risk of malnutrition due to inadequate food intake. School children are also affected, as they often rely on subsidized meals provided by the government. When there is a shortage of food, this program is severely impacted, leading to children going to school on empty stomachs.

The lack of electricity not only affects individuals’ livelihoods but also the economy as a whole. It hinders the growth of small businesses, particularly those in the informal sector, as they rely heavily on electricity for their operations. Without power, they are unable to run their businesses efficiently, leading to a reduction in income and economic growth.

The Sierra Leonean government has taken some steps to address these challenges, such as investing in solar power and providing subsidies for farmers. It is important to note that more needs to be done to tackle these issues comprehensively. For instance, the government could increase investment in irrigation systems to ensure that farmers have access to water, which can boost crop production. It could also create a conducive environment for businesses to grow, with specific incentives to encourage the use of renewable energy.

The international community should also step in to support Sierra Leone. Aid organizations could provide funding for food aid, while international investors could invest in renewable energy infrastructure. The crisis has gone on for far too long, and urgent action is needed to ensure that the people of Sierra Leone have access to food and electricity.

Sierra Leone is going through a significant struggle regarding access to food and electricity. The lack of food is due to environmental changes that have made it difficult for farmers to cultivate their crops, while the absence of electricity is due to disruptions in the energy supply chain. This crisis has had a far-reaching impact on the country’s economy, livelihoods, and health. Urgent action is needed to address this challenge, including investment in renewable energy infrastructure and support for farmers to increase food production.