Freetown: Actor and philanthropist Idris Elba and Sherbro Alliance Partners (SAP) have been formally granted approval by the Parliament of Sierra Leone to lead the regeneration of Sherbro Island and transform it into an eco-friendly 'smart city'. The Parliament has ratified a landmark public-private partnership (PPP) to develop Sherbro Island into a Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative has received unanimous support from the island's Paramount Chiefs and the wider Bonthe community. It will serve as the official Development Authority for Sherbro Island. Idris Elba, alongside his childhood friend Siaka Stevens, formed SAP in 2019 with the mission to convert Sherbro Island into a sustainable eco-city, aiming to spur economic growth in Sierra Leone and West Africa.
Idris Elba expressed, "The ratification of the Investment Framework Agreement by the Government and Parliament of Sierra Leone is a landmark moment. It brings us closer to realizing our vision of building a pioneering eco-smart city - the first of its kind in West Africa." Co-Founder and CEO Siaka Stevens echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the project is now a legally enshrined commitment to sustainable development and innovation in Africa.
Octopus Energy Generation, a major investor in clean energy in Europe, will play a key role by developing Sierra Leone's first wind farm on Sherbro Island. This initiative aims to generate clean, affordable power and boost the local economy, while also fostering entrepreneurial opportunities in the region.
The commitment to Sherbro Island is reflected in the design of a model SEZ, welcoming investors and residents. The plan, developed with local and global input, focuses on sustainable development that preserves the island's ecosystems and provides long-term benefits to Sierra Leoneans. The SEZ anticipates a diverse economy, creating quality jobs and bringing new skills to the region.
Zoisa North Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy Generation, stated, "This is an important milestone and a powerful signal of confidence in the extraordinary potential of this project." She highlighted Sierra Leone's ambition for 85% renewable energy capacity by 2030 and noted that the creation of the country's first wind farm will contribute to investment, green jobs, and long-term prosperity.
