The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has reviewed the progress of a capacity-building initiative designed to strengthen diesel generator maintenance and improve the reliability of electricity supply in Liberia.
The assessment took place during a Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting, where representatives evaluated the implementation of the Project for Capacity Development in Diesel Generator Maintenance and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the technical capabilities of LEC’s Thermal Generation Division.
As part of the programme, LEC personnel have received both classroom instruction and practical training focused on the 2,400-hour maintenance cycle for diesel generators.
The utility also announced plans to begin training staff on the more advanced 20,000-hour maintenance programme, aimed at further strengthening its long-term operational and maintenance capabilities.
According to LEC, its Thermal Generation Division plays a critical role in Liberia’s power sector by providing backup electricity whenever hydroelectric generation or other energy sources are unable to meet demand.
The corporation said it remains committed to investing in staff training and technical capacity development to improve service delivery and ensure the effective maintenance of key generation assets.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Liberian government, LEC and JICA, including Deputy Minister of Energy, Charles Umehai, LEC’s Deputy Managing Directors for Operations, Technical Services and Administration, as well as directors from the Strategy, Corporate Affairs and Revenue Protection departments.
During the session, JICA’s expert team presented an update on the project’s implementation, outlining the progress made in improving maintenance expertise within LEC.
The presentation was delivered by Chief Advisor Jujii Kyoji, Technical Planning and Management Expert Iwago Mikiko, and Senior Representative of the JICA Ghana Office, Ito Miwa.
Speaking on behalf of participants, Operations Manager of LEC’s Thermal Generation Division, Saidu S. K. Jalibah, said the training programme had significantly improved staff knowledge and practical skills in diesel generator maintenance.
He also presented the division’s operations and maintenance strategy, noting that the enhanced technical capacity would contribute to greater equipment reliability, improved operational efficiency and more sustainable electricity generation.
LEC’s management expressed appreciation to JICA for its continued technical assistance, emphasising that investment in human resource development remains essential to strengthening Liberia’s electricity sector and delivering more reliable power to consumers.