### Analysis of the agreement between SNEL and Huawei: issues and perspectives for digital transformation in DRC
On April 11, 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo marked an important step in its journey towards the modernization of its electro-technical infrastructure with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the National Electricity Society (SNEL) and the Chinese technological society Huawei. This commitment, which aims to digitally transform the country’s electrical services, raises questions about its long -term implications, both for SNEL and for Congolese users.
#### An ambitious project in the multiple axes
This strategic partnership is based on four main axes. First of all, it is a question of extending optical fiber to improve interconnection across the country. This initiative is all the more relevant in a country like the DRC, where access to electricity and reliable connectivity remains a challenge. Second, the project plans to replace the electrical distribution system currently in place, emphasizing the implementation of smart meters and on better management of intervention teams.
The third axis of this transformation concerns the introduction of digital infrastructure and the improvement of a data center, which will strengthen the digital basis necessary to evolve in an increasingly interconnected world. Finally, the integration of innovative technologies in the distribution and distribution cabins could make it possible to generate high speed and value-added services for users, which would be a considerable advance.
#### A partnership perceived as mutually beneficial
The will expressed by Huawei to collaborate synergically with the SNEL teams is an aspect hailed by Fabrice Lusinde, the director general of the SNEL. This collaborative approach not only aims at efficiency but also the sustainability of the project. By integrating local expertise and Huawei’s technical resources, it is possible to lay the groundwork for a digital transformation which could ultimately internationalize the energy sector in the DRC.
Still, according to the SNEL press release, the technological tool called “Power Port” could play a key role in the modernization of the electrical network, promoting an innovation capacity which would not only be linked to energy but also to other areas with repercussions on the overall socio-economic development of the DRC.
### Requests that remain
Despite the aforementioned enthusiasm, several questions are emerging. The success of such a project is based not only on the technology implemented, but also on the crisis of confidence which has often existed between the Congolese state and its citizens. In a context where the management of electricity has sometimes been perceived as opaque, the reluctance of users as to a possible scanning of services could hamper the adoption of promised innovations. How does SNEL intend to communicate on these changes to reassure the population and guarantee equitable access to electricity?
On the other hand, this collaboration also raises concerns about technological dependence. The DRC, through this alliance with Huawei, will it be able to maintain its strategic autonomy in the energy sector, or does it risk becoming dependent on foreign technology?
Finally, it is important to examine the financial sustainability of this project. Investments in digital infrastructure require significant resources, and financing methods as well as economic repercussions for the DRC must be clearly defined to avoid the pitfalls of similar projects observed in other developing countries.
#### Conclusion: a decisive turning point?
By exploring the implications of this agreement, it is imperative to keep in mind that the path to the digital transformation of electricity in the DRC will be strewn with pitfalls but also of opportunities. By promoting an open dialogue between stakeholders and promoting increased transparency, it will be possible to build mutual trust which is essential for the success of this initiative. The commitment of SNEL and Huawei could then become a model for other sectors looking for modernization and sustainability.
In short, this agreement is a real turning point that deserves special attention, both for its promises of innovation and for the challenges it could involve. The way in which the DRC will sail in this constantly evolving environment is a crucial question, both for the country’s energy future and for the well-being of its population.