By Mohamed Jaward Nyallay, Strategic Communications Adviser
The Government of Sierra Leone has announced plans to transition the operational management of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to a private operator by the end of 2026. The move is aimed at boosting efficiency, improving service delivery, and ensuring financial sustainability within the energy sector.
Deputy Minister of Energy I, Edmund Nonie, disclosed the initiative during the government’s weekly press conference at the Miatta Civic Center on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. He explained that the reform is part of a broader agenda to tackle longstanding challenges in electricity distribution, including revenue losses, operational inefficiencies, and limited cost recovery.
“By the end of this year, the operations of EDSA will be privatized. A private company will be engaged to run the institution with a clear focus on efficiency and performance,” Minister Nonie stated. “Let me be clear: the government is not selling EDSA. We are only privatizing its operations.”
Public-Private Partnership Model
Under the proposed framework, ownership of EDSA will remain with the state, while day-to-day management and operational control will be transferred to a private entity with the technical expertise to optimize performance. The government believes this model will introduce performance-based systems, reduce technical and commercial losses, and enhance customer service delivery.
Addressing Structural Imbalances
Minister Nonie emphasized that the reform is necessary to correct structural imbalances within the sector, particularly the high cost of electricity provision relative to revenue generation—especially in rural and underserved communities.
“Government is currently spending significantly more on electricity supply in rural areas than it is able to recover,” he noted. “Despite this, we remain fully committed to expanding access to electricity across the country.”
He reaffirmed the government’s broader electrification agenda, aligning the reform with national development priorities. “By the end of President Bio’s tenure, we are determined to ensure that electricity supply is more reliable, more accessible, and ultimately guaranteed for Sierra Leoneans.”
Early Private Sector Engagement
The Deputy Minister revealed that EDSA has already begun engaging private partners in targeted areas such as revenue collection and debt recovery.
“EDSA is already partnering with a private institution to recover outstanding debts,” he said. “These measures are beginning to yield results and are positioning us better in our financial engagements with energy suppliers. This year we have not heard of situations where suppliers are threatening to shut down operations.”
Proof of Concept
The government views these early collaborations as proof of concept for broader private sector participation, demonstrating how efficiency gains and improved accountability can be achieved through strategic partnerships.
The planned privatization of operations is expected to strengthen financial performance, reduce losses, and improve service delivery—key issues that have historically undermined Sierra Leone’s energy sector.