The Ministry of Energy has announced that Karpowership, the Turkish company supplying electricity to Sierra Leone’s capital, will cease power supply to Freetown effective midnight on June 12, 2025, due to outstanding payments owed by the government.

The announcement was made in an official communication from the Ministry on Monday, which sought to update the public on recent developments surrounding the energy supply situation in the country.

The Ministry, under the leadership of Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, disclosed that discussions and negotiations had been ongoing in recent months to explore the possibility of extending the existing power agreement with Karpowership for an additional year.

However, on May 28, 2025, the Ministry received a formal disconnection notice from the company, stating its intention to suspend full electricity supply unless payment arrears were settled.

Despite the disconnection plans, Karpowership has agreed to continue supplying 6 megawatts of electricity to power critical facilities such as hospitals and essential services in Freetown.

In response to the looming power cuts, the Ministry assured the public that it is taking emergency measures, under the direct instruction of President Julius Maada Bio, to mitigate the anticipated shortfall in power supply. These measures include efforts to ensure a reliable, affordable, and accessible energy supply for the capital.

The Ministry also highlighted ongoing reforms at the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) aimed at improving the technical and commercial sustainability of the country’s energy utility.

While confirming that load shedding will be inevitable, the Ministry emphasized that it will be systematically managed to minimize disruptions for residents.

In closing, the Ministry expressed regret over the inconvenience this situation may cause and extended gratitude to citizens for their patience, understanding, and cooperation during this period.