In a major boost for Congo’s energy sector, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Republic of Congo have signed two grant agreements worth $1.5 million to enhance electricity access, strengthen the power grid, and address energy shortages.
Powering Congo’s Future with Hydroelectric and Transmission Upgrades
The first grant, $585,000, comes from the Middle Income Country Technical Assistance Fund and will finance feasibility studies for hydroelectric dams at Mbanza Ndounga and Linzolo, south of Brazzaville. These projects will pave the way for increased electricity generation and energy self-sufficiency.
The second grant, $995,000, is funded by the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Trust Fund (KOAFEC). This will support feasibility studies and designs for high-voltage transmission lines linking Pointe-Noire to Brazzaville and Loudima to Djambala, strengthening Congo’s national power grid and improving energy reliability.
A Step Towards Universal Electricity Access
The agreements were signed by Solomane Koné, AfDB’s Acting Director General for Central Africa, and Ludovic Ngatse, Congo’s Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Integration.
“These grants reinforce our commitment to improving energy access in Congo,” said Ngatse. “With these studies, we move closer to achieving universal electricity coverage for both urban and rural areas.”
This funding supports Congo’s long-term energy strategy and contributes to “Mission 300,” a joint initiative between AfDB and the World Bank aimed at providing electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
AfDB’s Role in Africa’s Energy Transformation
AfDB has been a key player in scaling up energy investments across Africa, leading projects such as Desert to Power, the Africa Energy Marketplace, and now Mission 300.
“For years, we have partnered with African nations to help them meet their energy goals,” said Koné, reaffirming AfDB’s commitment to Congo’s sustainable energy development.
This initiative aligns with AfDB’s Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for Congo, which prioritizes sustainable infrastructure and economic growth. The partnership underscores the shared vision between AfDB and Congo to build a stronger, more electrified future for the nation.
Bringing Power to the People
With these grants, Congo is taking critical steps toward closing its energy gap. As feasibility studies lay the foundation for new hydroelectric projects and power grid expansions, the country moves closer to a more reliable, sustainable, and inclusive energy future—one that will benefit industries, businesses, and millions of people across the nation.
