The project is being implemented in partnership with Infinitum Energy Group to address the country’s pressing waste management and energy access challenges.

CFM has allocated $3.1 million in development funding from its EU-backed Climate Investor Two Fund, a blended finance facility dedicated to advancing water, waste, and ocean infrastructure in emerging economies.

Sierra Leone’s urban centers, particularly Freetown, face significant waste management issues due to rapid population growth and inadequate infrastructure.

Existing dumpsites such as Kingtom and Kissy, established decades ago, are unable to cope with increasing waste volumes, leading to environmental hazards, clogged waterways, and heightened flood risks.

The proliferation of illegal dumpsites further exacerbates these problems, contributing to severe health and sanitation concerns.

At the same time, energy access remains a critical challenge in Sierra Leone, with only 22% of the population connected to electricity. A significant portion of the country’s power supply—up to 40%—relies on costly and environmentally damaging fossil fuels, leaving many communities without reliable electricity.

The planned waste-to-energy facility aims to offer a sustainable power source by converting municipal waste into reliable baseload electricity.

The project is expected to complement the country’s hydropower system, particularly during the dry season when energy shortages are more pronounced.

Darron Johnson, CFM’s Regional Head for Africa, emphasized the transformative potential of the project, stating:

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to providing scalable solutions that address climate, social, and economic challenges. By converting Freetown’s waste into energy, we are reducing emissions, creating economic opportunities, and improving public health. This partnership highlights the role of blended finance in mitigating early-stage project risks and advancing innovative infrastructure solutions in emerging markets.”

Lindsay Nagle, CEO of Infinitum Energy Group, also underscored the project’s significance, noting:

“We are proud to collaborate with CFM on this landmark initiative. By utilizing proven technology and a strong public-private partnership model, we are tackling two major challenges in Freetown: waste management and reliable energy supply. This project exemplifies how private sector innovation and government cooperation can drive sustainable development, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future in Sierra Leone.”

The project represents a significant step forward in addressing both waste management inefficiencies and energy deficits in Sierra Leone, showcasing the potential of waste-to-energy technology to contribute to sustainable urban development in emerging economies.