In a context where electrical energy is scarce despite the abundant hydroelectric resources of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a major project is on the horizon for Kisangani. Indeed, the rehabilitation and expansion of hydroelectric infrastructure in the region are at the heart of the concerns of the Congolese authorities.
At the head of this initiative, the Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals, Constant Mutamba, chaired a meeting that revealed the need for a substantial budget of 120 million USD for the rehabilitation of the Tshopo 1 hydroelectric power plant and the construction of the new Tshopo 2 power plant. This ambitious project aims to meet the growing demand for electricity in Kisangani, which has suffered from a chronic energy deficit for too long.
Local elected officials, represented by Justin Bensesana N’Zama, were optimistic about the financial support provided by the Frivao program to make this project a reality. However, aware of the challenges and needs of the local population, public-private partnerships will also be explored to financially support the implementation of these new hydroelectric infrastructures.
The recent visit of the President of the Republic to Kisangani was an opportunity to note the urgency of the rehabilitation work of the Tshopo 1 power plant and to consider the construction of Tshopo 2. To support these initiatives, Minister Mutamba allocated an initial envelope of USD 50 million, while recognizing that additional funding will be necessary to carry out these projects.
The Director General of the National Electricity Company (SNEL), Fabrice Lusinde, stressed the crucial importance of modernizing the current, aging and obsolete electricity infrastructure. Partnerships with institutions such as the French Development Agency (AFD) and the European Union (EU) will provide essential financial support to ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply in Kisangani.
The completion of this work in a relatively short time frame demonstrates the commitment of the Congolese authorities to effectively meet the expectations of the inhabitants of Kisangani. Indeed, access to reliable and abundant electricity will significantly contribute to improving the quality of life and promoting the economic development of the region.
The strategic importance of this project for the province of Kisangani was highlighted by the Ministers of Portfolio and Water Resources, thus demonstrating unanimous support for this crucial initiative.
In conclusion, the rehabilitation and expansion of hydroelectric infrastructure in Kisangani represents a decisive step towards a more energetic and prosperous future for the region. Thanks to the collaboration between the Congolese authorities and SNEL, this ambitious project will become reality, thus offering the local population prospects for development and sustainable well-being.