The Kandadji hydroelectric dam construction project, in the so-called “three borders” area between Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, has encountered a new obstacle. Indeed, the work was interrupted following the economic sanctions imposed on the Nigerien putschists by the Economic Community of West African States.
This decision was announced by the Chinese group in charge of the construction of the dam, in a letter addressed to the labor inspectorate of Tillabéri. To understand the importance of this project for Niger and the reasons for its delay, we interviewed Adamou Louche, economist and specialist in the matter.
The Kandadji dam project dates back to the 1970s, when the country experienced a terrible famine. Since then, every Nigerien president has made its achievement a priority. It aims to increase local electricity production, with the construction of a 100 megawatt power plant, which would enable the country to reduce its energy dependence on neighboring Nigeria. Moreover, it would improve access to electricity in a country where only 20% of the population has access to it.
The dam would also impact Niger’s agriculture, which is highly dependent on rainfall. By irrigating an area of 45,000 hectares, it would contribute to reducing the recurrent food crises that the country experiences. According to estimates by the dam agency, this would produce an additional 400,000 tonnes of rice, corn and garden produce each year.
The delays in the construction of the dam are due to several factors. Political instability, necessary population displacements and the tense security situation in the region have all contributed to slowing down the work. Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has also caused additional delays.
Today, work is at a standstill due to economic sanctions and the closure of borders which prevent the import of certain products and materials necessary for construction. The international organizations participating in the financing of the project have also suspended their contribution.
It therefore remains to be hoped that these problems can be resolved quickly in order to relaunch the construction of the Kandadji dam. For Niger, this project is essential to ensure the country’s energy autonomy and improve the food security of its population