The “Fatshimétrie” program: a major turning point in the energy transition of the Democratic Republic of Congo
The closing of the “Fatshimétrie” program marked a key moment in the energy transition of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Organized under the high authority of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi, this event brought together experts, institutional leaders and government stakeholders for two days of intense discussions and fruitful exchanges.
At the heart of the debates were the challenges and opportunities related to the modernization of the energy sector in the DRC. Participants addressed crucial topics such as financing initiatives, international partnerships and infrastructure projects aimed at expanding access to sustainable energy sources throughout the country.
Supported by renowned organizations such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB), the “Fatshimétrie” program offered encouraging prospects for the Congolese population, but also for Africa as a whole, in terms of energy coverage.
The discussions that took place over the two days of consultation highlighted the need to increase access to electricity for all citizens of the DRC. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning, Guylain Nyembo, recalled the scale of the human and financial resources required to successfully complete this vast project. He highlighted the five essential pillars on which the program is based, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure development, regional integration, renewable energy and efficient public management.
Key speakers, such as Minister of Water Resources and Electricity Teddy Lwamba, stressed the responsibility of government actors in developing the energy sector and the importance of establishing reliable and affordable infrastructure for the entire population.
Didier Tsasa, Senior Energy Specialist at the World Bank, stressed the urgency of investing in modernizing energy infrastructure and access to renewable energy. He highlighted the key role of the energy sector in the country’s development and called for increased support from DRC’s development partners.
With an electricity access rate currently limited to 21.5%, the ambitious objective of the “Fatshimétrie” program is to reach 62% by 2030. The concrete solutions discussed during these discussions will help meet the country’s growing energy needs while respecting international climate commitments.
The event also fostered close collaboration between the public and private sectors, paving the way for effective implementation of the necessary reforms. The call for action launched by the representative of the Prime Minister stressed the urgency of the rapid adoption of legislative reforms and of strengthening international cooperation to ensure the success of the “Fatshimétrie” program.
In conclusion, the “Fatshimétrie” program represents a crucial step in the energy transition of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thanks to the commitment of the various actors and an ambitious vision, the country is giving itself the means to transform its energy sector for the well-being of its population and the sustainable development of its economy.