By Emma Black
For the first time in four decades, the people of Moyamba are celebrating the return of electricity to their township a historic milestone powered by a newly commissioned 1-megawatt solar energy facility.
President Julius Maada Bio officially switched on the solar plant on Saturday, 17 May 2025, marking a turning point in the lives of thousands of residents and local businesses that have long operated in darkness.
The atmosphere in Moyamba was electric both literally and emotionally as residents expressed joy and renewed hope for development.
Fatmata Conteh, a businesswoman operating near the Moyamba Police Station, spoke with Kakua Express during the launch event, with a beaming smile, she shared, I am making money now due to the constant electricity supplied. I congratulate EDSA for making this possible. Before now, businesses were suffering.”
Her story is not unique. For many business owners, the return of power is not just about convenience it’s about survival, Sombo Saidu, who runs a small shop along Sembehun Road, also shared her experience:
Electricity is bringing more customers to my business place. When there was a blackout, I decided to stop because it wasn’t profitable. Now, my drinks are always cold. I had even considered relocating. Light is development.”
Joseph Koroma, owner of a local entertainment center near the clock tower, emphasized the economic damage caused by the lack of electricity, lack of power was destroying businesses in Moyamba. If the light continues in a sustainable way, more businesses will open. This is a huge boost.”
Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony, President Bio underscored the importance of the Moyamba Solar Project, describing it as a game-changer for the district, the commissioning of the Moyamba solar plant will bring meaningful improvements to this district, he stated.
“Electricity will drive progress in education, healthcare, and local businesses.
The President also announced plans to replicate similar solar energy projects in other districts, promising a future where more communities across Sierra Leone can enjoy reliable and clean energy.
For a district that has endured 40 years without public electricity, this moment marks not just the return of power but the beginning of a new era of opportunity and growth. Residents are hopeful that the light, now restored, will remain steady and unlock the full economic potential of Moyamba, as the solar panels gleamed under the afternoon sun and lights flickered on across town, the people of Moyamba rejoiced not just for the electricity, but for the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 21st, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
