Guinea-Bissau’s capital, Bissau, has been left without power after a Turkish firm, Karpowership, cut off electricity supplies due to an unpaid bill of at least $15 million. This has severely disrupted daily life, with even radio stations unable to broadcast. Economy Minister Suleimane Seidi has acknowledged the arrears and stated that most of the bill will be paid within 15 days. Karpowership, known for operating floating power plants, has previously cut power to Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, for an unpaid bill of $40 million. The company has also recently signed a deal to supply power to South Africa, aiming to address the country’s electricity needs.
The power was cut in Bissau on Tuesday, leaving a population of over 400,000 in darkness. The lack of electricity has had significant consequences, with public hospitals resorting to generators for surgeries. Media outlets, including state-run Rádio Nacional, have stopped broadcasting, further impacting the dissemination of crucial information. Karpowership claims to have been supplying all of Guinea-Bissau’s electricity since 2019 under a five-year agreement with the state-owned utility company.
Efforts are currently underway to resolve the issue and restore electricity generation. Karpowership spokesperson has stated that they are working with officials to find a solution. Economy Minister Seidi has mentioned that the company has agreed to renegotiate with the government to ensure the resumption of electricity supplies. Karpowership is also responsible for supplying electricity to other African countries such as Ghana, The Gambia, Ivory Coast, Mozambique, Senegal, and Sierra Leone.
This incident highlights Turkey’s growing influence in Africa, particularly in the energy sector. With access to electricity still low in sub-Saharan Africa, this situation emphasizes the challenges faced in meeting the region’s energy demands. Over 50% of the population in this area lacks a grid connection, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad).
In conclusion, the power cut in Guinea-Bissau’s capital, Bissau, due to unpaid bills to the Turkish firm Karpowership has plunged the city into darkness, disrupting daily life and essential services. Efforts are being made to resolve the issue and restore electricity generation. This incident also sheds light on Turkey’s growing influence in Africa’s energy sector and the challenges faced in providing electricity to sub-Saharan Africa.
