- The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Republic of Congo signed two grants worth $1.5 million to boost the country’s energy sector and improve electricity access.
- The grants align with Congo’s electrification strategy and the “Mission 300” initiative, which aims to provide electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
The African Development Bank and the Republic of Congo have signed two grant agreements worth $1.5 million. These funds will strengthen Congo’s energy sector and improve electricity access.
Ludovic Ngatse, Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Integration, signed the agreement with Solomane Koné, the Bank’s Acting Director General for Central Africa. The signing took place in Brazzaville on February 26, 2025.
The first grant, worth $585,000, comes from the Middle Income Country Technical Assistance Fund. This funding will support development studies for hydroelectric dams. These studies will focus on Mbanza Ndounga in the south and Linzolo near Brazzaville.
The government aims to boost electricity production and achieve energy self-sufficiency. Hydropower remains a key source of electricity for the country. However, challenges like outdated infrastructure and limited transmission capacity persist.
The second grant, worth $995,000, comes from the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Trust Fund (KOAFEC). This funding will finance feasibility studies and the design of new transmission lines. These lines will connect Pointe-Noire to Brazzaville and Loudima to Djambala.
Reliable transmission infrastructure is crucial for reducing power outages and improving electricity access in rural areas. Due to a lack of grid access, many rural communities still depend on kerosene and firewood.
Minister Ngatse emphasised the importance of these grants. He said they align with Congo’s electrification strategy and aim for universal electricity access.
“These agreements show the strong partnership between the government and the African Development Bank,” said Ngatse. He stressed that the studies will support electrification in both urban and rural areas.
These grants will prepare key energy projects to help Congo meet its electrification goals. They also align with “Mission 300,” a joint initiative by the African Development Bank and the World Bank that aims to provide electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
Solomane Koné highlighted the Bank’s commitment to energy investments. “For a decade, we have launched major initiatives to boost Africa’s energy sector,” he said. He mentioned projects like “Mission 300,” “Desert to Power,” and the “Africa Energy Marketplace.”
Electricity access has improved in Congo, but challenges remain. Around 70% of urban residents have electricity, while rural areas are behind. Nationwide, only 40% of people have access to reliable power.
Congo relies heavily on hydropower, but transmission and distribution systems need upgrades. Frequent outages affect businesses and households, especially outside major cities.
To address these challenges, the government is prioritising energy investments. Off-grid solutions like solar power are also gaining traction in rural areas.
The African Development Bank remains a key partner in Congo’s energy sector. Its Country Strategy Paper (CSP) focuses on sustainable infrastructure and economic growth.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to achieving universal electricity access. By strengthening the energy sector, Congo moves closer to energy security and economic development.