Bombali Development Actors (BDA) Seek Clarification on Worsening Makeni Power Crisis

Bombali Development Actors (BDA) Seek Clarification on Worsening Makeni Power Crisis

Prolonged electricity outages have intensified in Makeni and Magburaka, leading to heightened frustration, uncertainty, and severe economic hardship for residents. This escalating power crisis has prompted the Bombali Development Actors (BDA) to issue a public demand for definitive explanations from the relevant energy authorities.

Following weeks of stakeholder engagements, the BDA held a press conference in Makeni to present findings from meetings with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), EGTC officials, political leaders, and a fact-finding visit to the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Dam. The BDA warned that the sustained power shortage is critically impacting livelihoods, commercial operations, transportation, and domestic sustenance.

BDA Chairman Mohamed Sorie Conteh, reading a statement for the coalition, detailed the group's formation following an initial visit by civil society actors and media practitioners to EDSA and EGTC facilities on April 15, 2026, aimed at understanding the persistent blackout situation affecting the Bombali and Tonkolili districts.

Conteh stated that the issue transcends a mere electricity shortage, asserting, "This has evolved into a social and economic emergency that impacts ordinary citizens daily."

The BDA reported that initial efforts, which briefly restored supply to approximately 5.8 megawatts, were followed by a rapid deterioration of the situation, resulting in some communities enduring power outages for periods exceeding three consecutive days.