The article recently published on the Fatshimetrie blog highlights the efforts undertaken by the Kilo Moto Mining Company (SOKIMO) to rehabilitate the Budana hydroelectric power station, in the territory of Djugu in Ituri. This rehabilitation project aims to ensure the supply of electricity to the Nizi mineral processing plant, located more than 30 kilometers from Bunia.
Despite the financial difficulties encountered by SOKIMO, the general management allocated a substantial fund for the rehabilitation of the hydroelectric plant. The company’s engineers were tasked with supervising the work, which included the repair of three turbines, two of which had been out of service for several years.
As part of the rehabilitation, the necessary parts were transported from Kampala, Uganda. Once repairs are completed, the Budana plant is expected to provide reliable electrical power for industrial mineral processing in the region.
This project to rehabilitate the Budana hydroelectric power station benefited from a partnership with the provincial government of Ituri, as well as the support of the local population, in particular that of Budana who will be the main beneficiary of the electricity produced.
SOKIMO plans to begin production of the first gold bar in the Djugu region in December 2023. Construction work on buildings and other infrastructure is already underway to allow a rapid start of operations.
This project to rehabilitate the Budana hydroelectric power station demonstrates SOKIMO’s commitment to sustainable development and the responsible exploitation of natural resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By ensuring a clean and reliable source of energy for the mineral processing plant, the company helps strengthen economic activity and job creation in the region.
In conclusion, the rehabilitation of the Budana hydroelectric power station by the Kilo Moto Mining Company (SOKIMO) is part of an approach to sustainable development and the valorization of the natural resources of the Djugu region in Ituri. This project will ensure a stable and efficient electricity supply for the mineral processing plant, thus promoting local economic development.