By Kadijatu Bangura Daily Scope – Freetown
China has restated its support for Sierra Leone’s drive to modernize its power sector and expand electricity access, following talks between Ambassador Zhao Yong and Energy Minister Cyril Grant in Freetown on Thursday, 7 May 2026.
During a courtesy call at the Ministry of Energy’s conference room, Ambassador Zhao said Beijing views energy as a key pillar of sustainable development and is ready to deepen cooperation on renewables, grid upgrades, and technical training. “We stand ready to support the government’s Energy Transition Plan,” he said.
Minister Grant outlined ongoing reforms, including solar mini-grid deployment, transmission line rehabilitation, and plans to boost generation through public-private partnerships. He said the transition aims to extend power to rural communities while cutting reliance on costly thermal plants.
“We appreciate China’s continued partnership and look forward to turning commitments into projects that reach our people,” Grant said.
The meeting comes ahead of the 2026 FOCAC Summit, where energy cooperation is expected to be a focus of bilateral talks between the two countries.
Officials note that reforms in the energy sector are closely tied to the government’s Feed Salone agenda, with reliable power seen as essential for agricultural productivity and rural development.
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