Large parts of Freetown have been plunged into darkness following widespread power outages triggered by what the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) describes as “multiple technical glitches” caused by severe weather in the early hours of Wednesday.
In a public notice issued today, EDSA confirmed that the Freetown Distribution Network suffered major disruptions, leading to sectional blackouts across the Western Area. Affected communities span from Hastings to Kissy, Goderich to Wilberforce, and several central business and government locations including SLBC, Bintumani Hotel, and Fourah Bay Road.
Technicians have reportedly completed a network assessment and have begun repair works, but the Authority warned residents to expect intermittent power outages as the process continues.
“The gravity of the situation requires time and technical precision,” EDSA stated. “Our teams are actively working to restore supply, and we ask for public cooperation in reporting additional faults not already identified.”
EDSA has urged the public to call its helpline (672) or visit nearby substations to report any unlisted faults, promising “swift resolution” where possible.
The outage comes amid growing public frustration over the state of the country’s electricity infrastructure, which many say remains unreliable despite significant investment promises. Some residents, particularly in hard-hit areas like Lumley, Calabatown, and Adonkia, have expressed concern over the frequency of power cuts and the slow pace of repairs.
EDSA apologized to all affected customers and appealed for continued patience while work progresses to stabilize the power grid.
By Ibrahim Karimu
