The Italian engineering contractors Salini Costruttori, also known as SALCOST, has resumed work on the long-stalled Bumbuna Hydro-electric project in the northern district of Tonkolili and indications are that the project will be ready for commissioning by the end of 2005. SALCOST Area Manager Mr. Christian Fabio Capitanio, who briefed President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah at the Hill Station Lodge Wednesday 24th March 2004 about progress thus far, reported that all hurdles have now been crossed and all outstanding payments effected.

Mr. Capitanio indicated that now that fresh funds had been transferred to the project Trust Fund, the way has been cleared for the remaining portio of work on the project to be concluded. Already there are three senior engineers working at the project site and the stage is now set for electrification to commence, he continued, noting further that the construction of the main powerhouse and other installations would also begin shortly.

The SALCOST manager also reported that tons of high-tension overhead cables were stolen during the civil conflict, including the downing of some twenty metal towers, all of which, he assured, would be replaced within a twelve-month period.

In his remarks that followed, President Kabbah highlighted the present status of electric power supply in the country. He noted that as at now the National Power Authority (NPA) could only generate eleven (11) megawatts of electricity but added that in a short period of time another seven megawatts would be added, to be followed by a further seven megawatts later on.

Emphasising the urgent need for adequate power supply countrywide, the Head of State also disclosed that the Peoples Republic of China was about to establish a tractor assembly plant in Sierra Leone for the manufacturing of tractors to service the agricultural needs of the entire sub region.

The President, who also made reference to the capital city's defunct street lighting system, said it was important for that facility to be restored once again and spoke of the feasibility of installing a pre-paid meter billing system in order to ensure maximum collection of revenue from electricity.

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