By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, Karpowership has officially handed over the newly renovated Variety Children and Family Services Home in Kingtom, Freetown. The event, held on Friday, 10th October 2025, marked a major milestone in the company’s continued investment in Sierra Leone’s social development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Emre Durmusoglu, Karpowership’s Commercial Operations Director, revealed that the company spent approximately $70,000 on the renovation. The project involved the complete renewal of the building’s structure, furniture, equipment, and utilities, all aimed at providing a safe and comfortable home for the children.
Durmusoglu also disclosed that Karpowership will continue to fund the home’s monthly consumables through its local partner, reaffirming its commitment to long-term social impact. “Since we began operations in Sierra Leone in 2018, we have not only supplied reliable and affordable electricity but also supported communities through sustainable humanitarian initiatives,” he said.
Yankay Sawaneh, Karpowership’s Project Manager in Sierra Leone, emphasized that the renovation aligns with the company’s global “One World” vision—focused on improving lives in the communities where it operates. He stated that the refurbishment will uplift living conditions at the orphanage while bringing renewed hope to the children.
Sawaneh further noted that Karpowership’s support extends beyond infrastructure. The company has pledged to pay school fees, provide monthly food supplies and sanitary items, and continue to care for the children’s welfare. He cited earlier CSR efforts such as donations during the COVID-19 pandemic and annual Ramadan giveaways as proof of the company’s enduring community focus.
“We believe that giving back to society is as important as delivering power,” Sawaneh said. “Seeing the children’s smiles in their newly refurbished home is the greatest reward for our efforts.”
Francis Lahai, Director of Variety Children and Family Services, praised Karpowership for what he described as a timely and transformative intervention. He explained that managing the home had been financially challenging, with feeding and electricity costs posing constant burdens. Lahai said the institution currently supports over 675 children and collaborates with more than 300 foster parents across Sierra Leone and neighboring countries such as Guinea and Liberia.
He shared success stories, including that of an Ebola orphan now in her final year of Accounting and Finance at university, as evidence of the home’s impact. However, he appealed for more support to complete a proposed 3.6-acre “Kids’ Village” at Kerry Town, envisioned as a lasting legacy for vulnerable children.
The Turkish Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Burak Rende, commended Karpowership for its consistent contributions to national development. He noted that the company’s CSR efforts extend beyond electricity generation to directly improving lives. Ambassador Rende pledged continued collaboration between the Turkish Embassy and the Ministry of Energy to support similar humanitarian initiatives.
“Investing in children is investing in the future,” the ambassador remarked. “They are the next generation of leaders who will shape Sierra Leone’s social and economic destiny.”
The renovation of the Variety Children and Family Services Home adds to Karpowership’s growing portfolio of community development projects across Africa. Nour Hashim, Karpowership’s representative, summed it up best: “True progress isn’t just about power generation—it’s about empowering people. By investing in children, we’re investing in the nation’s future.”
