Chinese Technical Team Arrives for Nationwide Solar Lighting Project

The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) has received a delegation of Chinese technical experts for the rollout of a nationwide solar streetlight project aimed at improving lighting infrastructure across Sierra Leone’s 16 districts.

The project will see the installation of 1,500 solar-powered streetlights as part of efforts to expand renewable energy use, enhance public safety, and reduce reliance on the national electricity grid.

The visiting delegation is expected to spend the next two months conducting technical field assessments to guide implementation. The exercise will focus on design refinement, feasibility studies, logistical arrangements, and administrative requirements, including clearance procedures and workforce coordination.

According to MoPED officials, the initiative forms part of the government’s broader development agenda to improve nighttime security and stimulate local economic activity across the country.

They noted that the project is designed to ensure nationwide impact, with installations distributed across all districts rather than concentrated in the capital.

The officials further highlighted that the programme reflects growing bilateral cooperation between Sierra Leone and China and includes a knowledge-transfer component to train local technicians in the maintenance and repair of the solar systems.

The field assessment is expected to be completed within 60 days, after which installation work will commence.