Energy Ministry Announces Stabilisation of Power Supply After Bumbuna Recovery

The Ministry of Energy has announced a gradual stabilisation of electricity supply across Sierra Leone following recent power disruptions linked to reduced water levels at the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Dam.

The update was delivered during the Weekly Government Press Conference held at the Miatta Conference Centre, where sector ministers provided briefings on key national developments.

The Minister of Energy explained that recent nationwide outages were the result of a managed emergency response after a significant drop in reservoir water levels at Bumbuna, the country’s main hydropower source. He clarified that the situation required temporary load shedding rather than a full national blackout.

To mitigate the shortfall, the ministry implemented alternative power arrangements, including support to Freetown through the Kingtom and Blackhall Road power stations, while Makeni and Magburaka were supplied using fuel-powered thermal generators.

He further announced that water levels at the Bumbuna reservoir have now improved significantly, allowing for a steady recovery in electricity generation. As a result, power supply is being stabilised, with increased capacity now being fed into the national grid to reduce consumer deficits.

Looking ahead, the Minister said government is pursuing energy diversification projects, particularly in solar power, to reduce reliance on hydropower fluctuations and fossil fuels, and to build a more resilient national energy system.

The briefing was part of the government’s routine public communication efforts, chaired by Minister Chernor Bah, who reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transparency and regular updates on national issues.