Sierra Leone Strikes Groundbreaking U.S. LNG Deal

Sierra Leone has taken a significant step toward energy transformation and regional industrial growth with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop West Africa’s first U.S.-sourced Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal.

The agreement, signed on the sidelines of the U.S.–Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola, brings together the Government of Sierra Leone and CEC Africa (Sierra Leone) Limited (CECASL), sponsors of the 108MW Nant Power Project. The initiative will see Sierra Leone emerge as a strategic LNG hub, unlocking cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable energy for the Mano River Union and beyond.

Under the new MoU, CECASL will lead the transition of the Nant Power Project from LPG to LNG, reducing energy costs and improving grid stability. The project partners—TCQ Power, Anergi Group, AG&P, and current fuel supplier BB Energy (BBE) will collaborate on developing the terminal infrastructure.

This LNG terminal will be the first of its kind in West Africa to import U.S.-sourced LNG, reinforcing Washington’s growing strategic role in Africa’s energy future.

"This important agreement further solidifies the growing trade, investment, and energy relationship between the United States and Sierra Leone," said Ambassador Troy Fitrell, Senior Bureau Official of the U.S. Bureau of African Affairs. "American LNG will now help fuel West Africa’s rising energy demands, create jobs, and boost economic growth across both continents."

More than just a power project, the LNG terminal is poised to drive industrialization. It will supply reliable energy to Sierra Leone’s mining sector, supporting mineral processing and local value addition, key pillars in the country’s economic development strategy.

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Energy Governance Group and a key government representative at the summit, highlighted the long-term benefits: “This partnership is consistent with our national energy transition strategy and our industrialization ambition. As a government, we will ensure an enabling environment that allows this LNG hub to create jobs and secure affordable energy for all.”

The project has received enthusiastic support from its private sector sponsors.

Maria Stratonova, CEO of Anergi Group, said: “We are honored to deepen our partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone. This landmark project is a critical step in building resilient regional energy infrastructure and unlocking inclusive growth.”

Karim Nasser, Executive Chairman of TCQ Power Ltd, credited leadership from both Washington and Freetown: “We are thankful for President Trump’s bold advocacy for U.S. LNG and President Bio’s steadfast commitment to energy-led development. With this terminal, we will power homes, drive factories, and ensure Sierra Leone’s resources benefit its people.”

The project is expected to attract investment from institutions such as the U.S. International

Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is a key lender and political risk insurer for the Nant Power Project.

Once operational, Sierra Leone’s LNG terminal will not only stabilize its energy sector but also offer an export gateway to neighboring countries, positioning the country as a forward-looking energy and industrial hub in the sub-region.