In a context where access to electricity is crucial for economic and social development, the revival of the Katende hydroelectric power plant in the Kasai-Central province is of paramount importance for the local population. After years of waiting and stagnation, the project finally seems to be coming back to life, offering a new energy horizon to the region.
The announcement made by Teddy Lwamba, Minister of Water Resources and Electricity, during the recent presidential visit to Kananga, has given rise to new hope among the inhabitants of the province. Indeed, the civil engineering works, which had been interrupted for eight years, are expected to resume soon, thanks to funding from public funds. This initiative marks a decisive turning point in the realization of a project that could transform the daily lives of thousands of people in the region.
The government’s vision of using the Mining Fund for Future Generations (FOMIN) to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the project is to be welcomed. Indeed, investing in sustainable energy infrastructure is essential to ensure a better future for generations to come. The decision to prioritize the cities of Kananga, Mbuji-Mayi and Tshimbulu in the first phase of the project demonstrates a strategic approach aimed at maximizing the positive impacts for the population.
The improvement of the electricity supply in Kananga represents a significant first step towards greater energy inclusion in the region. The additional 16 megawatts planned, combined with efforts to modernize transmission lines, should allow the city to benefit from a more stable and reliable power supply. Similarly, the extension of the network to Mbuji-Mayi and Tshimbulu opens new perspectives in terms of economic and social development for these previously under-electrified localities.
In conclusion, the revival of the Katende hydroelectric plant is a symbol of hope and progress for the Kasaï-Central province. By investing in modern and sustainable energy infrastructure, the government is laying the foundations for a brighter future for the local population. It is now essential to ensure the effective and transparent implementation of this project, so that it truly benefits those for whom it was initiated: the citizens of Kasaï-Central.