Sierra Leone to transform energy sector under $480 million US Compact
Washington, DC, US (PANA) - The United States and Sierra Leone have signed a landmark $480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) agreement that gives Government of the West African country the opportunity to boost access to electricity, foster sustainable economic growth, and improve the quality of life of its citizens.
This grant, coupled with a voluntary contribution of $14.2 million from the Government of Sierra Leone, will fund transformational energy sector investments to deliver affordable and reliable electricity for 4.6 million people, the US Department of State said in a press release on Friday.
“The grant will substantially improve the operation of the electrical grid and increase the availability of affordable and reliable electricity for households, businesses, and social institutions – without adding to the country’s debt burden.”
The press release said MCC’s partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone will help unlock the country’s economic potential, empower communities and businesses, and create a more prosperous and thriving Sierra Leonean citizenry.
“As we work together to implement this transformational programme, the United States welcomes Sierra Leone’s sustained commitment to democratic principles, including progress on implementation of the Agreement for National Unity, on electoral and constitutional reform, and on pursuit of justice and accountability for electoral violence.”
The US said it remains “steadfast” in its support of building a more robust and resilient energy sector, strengthening democracy, and ensuring a brighter future for all the people of Sierra Leone.
-0- PANA MA 29Sept2024
