Africa / SADC: Accelerating hydropower and water projects to meet energy and water challenges
The ministers in charge of energy and water from the member countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have pledged to accelerate the implementation of major projects on the Congo River, notably the Grand Inga hydroelectric dam and the water transfer project. This decision was made on Thursday during a high-level ministerial dialogue in Harare, on the sidelines of the joint meeting of the Committee of Ministers responsible for these sectors.
The Grand Inga dam, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is set to become the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, with a potential installed capacity of 42,000 megawatts (MW). Backed by international financial institutions such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB), this project is of critical importance in regional energy integration efforts and aims to strengthen electricity access across the region.
In addition, the Congo River water transfer project, still in the design phase, seeks to improve water security for SADC countries. In the face of challenges linked to climate change and growing demographic pressure, this project aims to ensure a sustainable water supply for the region’s populations and key sectors.
The ministers also welcomed the initiatives undertaken as part of the “Mission 300,” supported by the OPEC Fund, which aims to provide clean energy to 300 million Africans by 2030. Among these initiatives are clean cooking programs, designed to reduce household pollution and improve public health.
A progress report on these projects and initiatives will be presented at the next SADC Council of Ministers meeting, scheduled for August in Madagascar. This meeting will provide an opportunity to review progress and strengthen regional cooperation on energy and water challenges.
