Citizens Bemoan EDAS Schedule Electricity Supply

Residents across Sierra Leone have expressed frustration over the new Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) timetable, citing frequent power outages and unpredictable supply schedules. The irregular electricity distribution has severely impacted businesses, students, and households, prompting widespread complaints on social media and public forums. EDSA recently implemented a new load-shedding timetable, attributing the unreliable power supply to technical issues. However, many residents claim the timetable is not being followed, leaving entire neighborhoods in darkness for extended hours beyond the scheduled outages. In Freetown, business owners have lamented the economic strain, as small enterprises depending on electricity—such as barbershops, restaurants, and welding workshops—have been forced to reduce operations or rely on expensive fuel-powered generators. “We can’t run our business like this. The timetable says we should have light from 6 PM to 6 AM in the morning, but we have been in darkness for two days straight,” alleged Mohamed Jalloh, a shop owner in Lumley. For students preparing for their WASSCE and BECE exams, the erratic electricity supply has become a major obstacle. Many have resorted to studying under streetlights or using candles and battery-powered lamps, which some parents worry is unsafe and unsustainable. “My children have to wake up at 3 AM just to read because we rarely get light at night,” complained Isatu Bangura, a mother of three in Kissy. Households are also grappling with food spoilage, as the lack of electricity prevents proper refrigeration. Some residents have been forced to buy ice blocks daily to preserve perishable items, adding to their financial burden. In response to growing criticism, EDSA spokesperson assured the public that the electricity crisis is temporary and that the government is working on solutions to stabilize the supply. “We understand the frustration of our customers, but we ask for patience as we resolve technical issues and improve our distribution network,” the spokesperson said. However, many Sierra Leoneans remain skeptical, citing years of unfulfilled promises regarding improved electricity services. As the country grapples with intermittent blackouts, citizens are urging the government and EDSA to provide a more reliable timetable and explore long-term energy solutions, including investments in renewable energy. For now, residents continue to voice their frustration, demanding accountability and immediate action to restore stable electricity across Sierra Leone.