By Amb. Penpusher
As the holy month of Ramadan commences, Muslims across Sierra Leone are embarking on a period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. However, their observance is overshadowed by the persistent electricity crisis gripping the nation.
In response, Sierra Leoneans are making a passionate appeal to President Julius Maada Bio, urging his administration to address the country’s power supply challenges as a matter of urgency.
For years, under the Bio-led administration, electricity shortages have disrupted daily life. However, during Ramadan, the impact is even more severe. Families rely on electricity to prepare their pre-dawn (Suhur) and evening (Iftar) meals, yet frequent blackouts make cooking difficult. Mosques and religious centers, which serve as hubs for communal prayers and gatherings, also struggle without adequate lighting and ventilation.
Moreover, businesses that depend on electricity, particularly those in food production and refrigeration, face significant losses, further straining an already fragile economy.
Mr. President, the lack of a reliable power supply not only affects domestic and commercial activities, but also jeopardizes the health and well-being of citizens. Without electricity, access to clean drinking water is limited in some areas, due to the inability to pump and store water. High temperatures and poor ventilation in homes make it challenging for people, especially children and the elderly, to rest properly during fasting hours. These hardships add to the overall difficulty of observing Ramadan in a dignified and comfortable manner.
The people of Sierra Leone are calling on the government to take decisive action to address the electricity crisis and fulfill its commitment to improving the lives of its citizens. The provision of a stable and reliable power supply is not only essential for economic growth, but also for the well-being and dignity of the nation’s people.
The ball is now in the government’s court to prioritize the needs of its citizens and ensure that the basic right to electricity is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for all.