Freetown, April 17 2025 – A fire erupted early Tuesday morning at the 34 Military Hospital in Wilberforce, Freetown, reportedly starting from a Chinese medical supply store that housed essential medicines. The National Fire Force responded swiftly, containing the blaze and preventing it from spreading to other parts of the hospital.
Though no casualties were reported, the incident has raised growing concerns about the increasing frequency of fire outbreaks across Sierra Leone. Experts and observers are pointing to the country’s unstable power supply as a possible contributing factor to these recurring fires.
In light of these developments, calls are mounting for the government to urgently review the national energy strategy. Analysts suggest that operations at new power installations, including those in Bumbuna, should be temporarily suspended pending comprehensive safety audits.
As a short-term solution, there is renewed advocacy for the Karpowership to remain fully operational to help stabilize electricity supply, reduce risks, and support critical infrastructure—particularly in the health sector—while the government works toward a more secure and sustainable energy plan.
