SEOUL, Sept Sierra Leone signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with South Korean companies on Wednesday to develop solar power projects, in a move aimed at addressing the West African nation’s chronic electricity shortages and advancing renewable energy goals.
The agreement, signed at a ceremony in Seoul, covers technical and financial support for building a solar power plant, technology transfer, and training for local experts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s energy capacity.
The event was attended by officials from the Sierra Leone Embassy in Korea, the country’s Minister of Youth, the Sierra Leone Economic Commission, Hyunmyung Group Chairman Baek Hyun-joo, World Cultural Economy Forum Vice Chairman Lee Seong-woo, and Wangsan Electric Solar CEO Park Byeong-hee.
“We expect this collaboration to introduce a reliable solar energy system to Sierra Leone,” Baek said, pledging comprehensive technical support.
Lee said the deal underscored the diplomatic significance of ties between the two countries, while Park added that Wangsan Electric aimed to train Sierra Leonean experts and help the country build localized solar systems.
Despite rich natural resources, Sierra Leone faces frequent blackouts and limited electricity coverage, with rural areas particularly underserved. The government has prioritised clean energy in national policy, and officials said the MOU marked a turning point in expanding access to reliable power.
A representative from the Sierra Leone Economic Commission called the partnership a “major opportunity” to strengthen energy security, reduce electricity costs, and create jobs, while also bolstering economic growth.
Officials said the cooperation could also pave the way for broader collaboration between Sierra Leone and South Korea in sectors such as culture, education, and technology.
The agreement comes as African nations seek international partnerships to scale up renewable energy and meet climate targets, with solar power increasingly viewed as one of the most viable solutions.
