By Leshan Wijayarathna and Ibrahim Jah Sesay
Mabilafu, Bombali District – In the heart of northern Sierra Leone, Sunbird Bioenergy SL Ltd is redefining what sustainable industrial growth looks like in West Africa.
The renewable energy giant, a subsidiary of Browns Investments PLC under LOLC Holdings, has emerged as one of the nation’s leading producers of bioethanol and renewable energy; driving economic empowerment while safeguarding the environment.
Since its establishment in 2018, following the acquisition of Addax Bioenergy, Sunbird Bioenergy has steadily expanded operations, transforming its Mabilafu-based site along the Rokel River into a hub of innovation and green technology.
Today, the company generates approximately 275 GWh of renewable power annually, alongside producing potable ethanol; a dual achievement that – underscores Sierra Leone’s transition toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
At the heart of Sunbird’s mission is a deep commitment to LOLC Holdings’ “triple-bottom-line” philosophy of profit, people, and planet. This guiding approach ensures that economic success is always balanced with community development and environmental stewardship.
The company’s business model focuses not only on profitability but also on creating social impact and maintaining ecological harmony, demonstrating that responsible industrial growth can uplift people and protect nature simultaneously.
True to this philosophy, Sunbird’s operations have become a source of livelihood for thousands across northern Sierra Leone. With over 500 full-time employees and more than 7,500 seasonal workers, the company directly benefits nearly 25,000 citizens, extending its impact across three chiefdoms and 53 villages. By working hand in hand with traditional leaders, local authorities, and development partners, Sunbird has fostered a strong sense of inclusion and partnership, ensuring that local communities remain at the center of its success story.
Moreover, Sunbird continues to align its initiatives with national development priorities.
The company proudly supports the Government of Sierra Leone’s Feed Salone initiative and contributes significantly to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s New Employment Programme.
Through its Community Investment Development and Agricultural Programmes (CIDAP) and Community Support & Development (CS&D) units, Sunbird has delivered essential infrastructure and social services – from schools and health facilities to clean water systems and sanitation programs making tangible improvements in the daily lives of rural citizens.
As part of its long-term sustainability strategy, Sunbird has also invested heavily in agricultural innovation. The company operates on approximately 25,000 hectares of leased land, with over 5,000 hectares already under cultivation using advanced irrigation and precision farming systems.
These technologies enable efficient water management and higher crop yields, while minimizing environmental impact. This responsible approach to land use and agriculture positions Sunbird as a leader in climate-smart farming practices, proving that productivity and conservation can thrive side by side.
In maintaining global best practices, Sunbird Bioenergy’s operational framework aligns with international standards set by the European Union, World Bank, and African Development Bank, and is strongly guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through its work in clean energy generation, employment creation, and environmental management, the company contributes directly to key SDGs such as affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, responsible production, and climate action.
Ultimately, Sunbird Bioenergy’s vision extends far beyond renewable power generation.
The company seeks to act as a catalyst for Sierra Leone’s green transformation; merging energy innovation, sustainable agriculture, and community development into a single integrated model of progress.
As the country advances toward greater energy independence and environmental resilience, Sunbird continues to stand out as a symbol of what is possible when private sector leadership aligns with national goals and global sustainability standards.
With every kilowatt of clean power produced and every new job created, Sunbird Bioenergy SL Ltd reinforces the belief that sustainability and economic growth can move forward together, lighting the path toward a greener, more prosperous future for Sierra Leone and the African continent at large.
Mr. Danesh Abeyrathne
(Director)
Mr. Danesh Abeyrathne
(Chief Operating Officer – Operations)
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday, 7th Noverber 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
