- Power Africa announced a $15.5 million investment to strengthen the energy sector in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during a visit by US Power Africa Coordinator Richard Nelson.
- Power Africa’s Empower East and Central Africa (EECA) program partners with local stakeholders in the DRC to reduce energy costs, improve utility performance, and promote sustainable development.
- The initiative aims to add 30,000 megawatts of new electricity generation capacity and create 60 million connections across sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
Richard Nelson, U.S. Power Africa Coordinator, wrapped up a four-day visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) earlier on August 15, and announced a $15.5 million investment to strengthen the country’s energy sector. The United States continues to commit to improving electricity access and bolstering the DRC’s power infrastructure.
Power Africa, a US government-led initiative, seeks to double electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative involves 12 US government agencies, including USAID, and partners with public and private sectors to advance regional power infrastructure and sustainability.
In the DRC, Power Africa’s Empower East and Central Africa (EECA) program collaborates with local stakeholders to implement solutions that address the country’s specific energy needs. These efforts focus on reducing energy costs, enhancing utility performance, and promoting sustainable development.
“Power Africa works with DRC leaders to bring clean, reliable energy to communities and businesses,” Nelson said. “Together, we attract more investment, ensure transparency, and improve governance in the energy sector.”
During his visit, Nelson met with Willy Likulia, Chief of Staff of the Société Nationale d’Électricité, to discuss how Power Africa can tackle the DRC’s energy challenges. He also engaged with senior executives from mining companies in southeastern DRC, exploring ways to support electricity generation projects in Lubumbashi.
Power Africa aims to add 30,000 megawatts of new electricity generation capacity and create 60 million new electricity connections across sub-Saharan Africa by 2030. The initiative focuses on unlocking the region’s potential for economic growth, job creation, better health outcomes, and environmental sustainability.