By Jamesetta D. Williams
The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the country’s electricity supply by strengthening the technical capacity of its Thermal Generation Division through a diesel generator maintenance training program supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The commitment was underscored during a Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting held in Monrovia to review the progress and achievements of the Project for Capacity Development in Diesel Generator Maintenance.
According to LEC, the project has equipped personnel in its Thermal Generation Division with both classroom instruction and hands-on practical training focused on the routine 2,400-hour maintenance of diesel generators.
The Corporation said preparations are now underway to train staff in the more advanced 20,000-hour maintenance program, a move expected to strengthen LEC’s long-term operational capacity and improve the reliability of electricity generation.
LEC noted that its Thermal Generation Division plays a critical role in Liberia’s electricity sector by providing backup power whenever hydroelectric generation or other energy sources are unable to meet national demand.
The Corporation said investing in technical training and staff development remains a key strategy in ensuring the proper maintenance of power generation equipment and improving electricity service delivery across the country.
The Joint Coordinating Committee meeting brought together senior government officials, LEC management, and representatives of JICA to assess the project’s implementation and discuss future areas of cooperation.
Among those attending the meeting were Deputy Minister of Energy Charles Umehai, LEC Deputy Managing Directors responsible for Operations, Technical Services, and Administration, as well as directors from the Corporation’s Strategy, Corporate Affairs, and Revenue Protection Departments.
The JICA expert team presented an overview of the project’s implementation, highlighting achievements in building the maintenance skills and technical competencies of LEC personnel. The presentation was delivered by Chief Advisor Jujii Kyoji, Technical Planning and Management Expert Iwago Mikiko, and JICA Ghana Office Senior Representative Ito Miwa.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Saidu S. K. Jalibah, Operations Manager of LEC’s Thermal Generation Division, said the program has enhanced the technical knowledge and practical skills of staff responsible for maintaining the Corporation’s diesel generators.
He also outlined the Division’s future operations and maintenance plans, noting that the training will contribute to improved equipment reliability, greater operational efficiency, and more sustainable electricity generation.
LEC management expressed appreciation to JICA for its continued partnership and technical assistance, emphasizing that investment in human capacity remains essential to strengthening Liberia’s energy sector.
The Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce capable of maintaining critical power generation assets and ensuring the reliable delivery of electricity services to customers across Liberia.
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