The Turkish Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Burak Rende, yesterday, paid a visit to Dr. Kandeh K. Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security (PI-CREF). During the meeting, both leaders discussed key development projects, particularly focusing on women’s health and Sierra Leone's energy sector.

Ambassador Rende shared insights on his collaboration with First Lady Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, on an exciting project aimed at building a hospital in Bo, dedicated to providing healthcare services for women and girls. This initiative is expected to provide much-needed medical care and empowerment to women in Sierra Leone, particularly in the Southern region.

Dr. Yumkella, in turn, highlighted the progress and vision of President Bio’s government, particularly in the area of renewable energy. He shared updates on the Mission300 Compact, a strategic plan designed to improve Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure, and discussed the important role of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) in attracting private sector participation. The discussion included a roadmap for the short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals for the country's energy generation capacity.

Ambassador Rende expressed his strong support for Sierra Leone’s energy strategies, praising the country's clear vision for sustainable energy growth. He offered his expertise in the energy sector and expressed confidence in the success of the nation’s energy transition plan. Additionally, the Ambassador pledged to support the negotiations regarding Karpowership, a key energy solution for the country, and emphasized his readiness to assist in exploring other innovative solutions that will further the achievement of Sierra Leone’s Energy Transition and Green Growth Plan.

Both leaders agreed to continue collaborating on these critical initiatives, which have the potential to significantly impact the well-being of Sierra Leoneans and the country’s economic future. Ambassador Rende's visit reinforced the strong relationship between Turkey and Sierra Leone and his commitment to supporting the country’s energy and healthcare sectors.

This partnership highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing key challenges and advancing development goals in Sierra Leone. With continued support from global partners like Turkey, Sierra Leone is poised to make significant strides in both the health and energy sectors in the years to come.