Hon. Alhaji Dr Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Chairman of Sierra Leone's Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, recently moderated a session of presentations by candidates vying for the position of Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi. The presentations were made to the IRENA Council, which is tasked with recommending a candidate to the IRENA Assembly for the final appointment decision in January 2027.
During the session, the shortlisted candidates outlined their plans for IRENA and responded to questions from the Council. This marks a significant step in the selection process for a successor to Francesco La Camera, the current Director-General, who will be completing his four-year term. The IRENA Council's recommendations will be crucial in determining the next leader of the agency.
Dr Yumkella's role as moderator reflects his prominent position in the international energy sector and highlights Sierra Leone's active participation in global energy transition discussions. This is in line with the efforts of President Julius Maada Bio's government to enhance access to affordable energy in Sierra Leone while supporting international initiatives for renewable energy and sustainable energy systems.
The 32nd Meeting of the IRENA Council, which took place in Abu Dhabi, brought together over 300 energy stakeholders, including government representatives and delegates from various countries. The meeting aimed to review agency operations and discuss priorities for promoting renewable energy usage and addressing climate change.
IRENA, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has 172 member countries and 12 additional countries in the accession process. The agency fosters international cooperation to promote renewable energy usage, address climate change, improve energy access and security, and support sustainable development. Its initiatives have a significant impact on the global energy landscape.
Dr Yumkella was accompanied by Sierra Leone's Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates and Permanent Representative to IRENA, Rashid Sesay, during the session. The presence of Sierra Leonean officials at the meeting underscores the country's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development.
The selection process for the next IRENA Director-General is expected to conclude in January 2027, when the IRENA Assembly makes the final appointment decision. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping the future of renewable energy globally and addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and sustainable development.
Key points
- Dr Yumkella moderated presentations by candidates for IRENA Director-General in Abu Dhabi.
- The IRENA Council will recommend a candidate to the IRENA Assembly for the final appointment decision in January 2027.
- Sierra Leone is actively participating in global energy transition discussions, reflecting its commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development.
