Residents and business groups in Makeni are increasing pressure on authorities to resolve a prolonged electricity blackout that is affecting livelihoods and economic activity.
A coalition made up of civil society organisations, journalists, traders and commercial bike riders has called for urgent action, warning that the situation is causing serious financial losses and could force some businesses to shut down.
The group recently held discussions with officials from the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) and the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) to address the issue. Although electricity supply briefly improved after the meeting, the progress did not last, with many parts of the city returning to darkness.
Local businesses, including restaurants, fisheries, water producers and traders dealing in perishable goods, say they are struggling to operate without reliable power. Many report daily losses due to the inability to store goods properly.
Commercial bike riders and other informal workers also say the blackout is affecting their income, as economic activities slow down across the city.
The coalition is now urging authorities to provide a clear and lasting solution, warning that continued power outages could have deeper consequences for the local economy and people’s livelihoods.
