SURE Project Brings Renewable Energy to Sierra Leone
A new renewable energy initiative, the Sustainable Rural Development through Renewable Energy (SURE) project, has been launched in Sierra Leone to expand sustainable energy access in rural communities and support women-led businesses.
Implemented by GIZ with funding from Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union (EU), the initiative builds on previous energy projects such as Energising Development (EnDev) and TEUSL I.
The project will focus on strengthening institutions, building technical skills, improving financial access, and encouraging the productive use of renewable energy to ensure long-term economic viability across rural regions.
Women-led enterprises serve as a core focus of the project, which aims to provide targeted support, training, and mentorship to help female entrepreneurs boost productivity and expand commercial activities.
By encouraging women to participate not only as beneficiaries but also as technicians, innovators, and leaders, the initiative seeks to broaden their role across the entire renewable energy value chain and strengthen their overall economic independence.
At the launch, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education highlighted the project's potential to enhance educational institutions through updated curricula, trainer development, and practical learning.
To ensure alignment with industry needs, the Ministry outlined plans to collaborate closely with the private sector and work toward establishing a Centre of Excellence for Renewable Energy, equipping young people with essential skills for the growing sector.
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