The government of Congo-Brazzaville announced on Wednesday that construction of a significant hydroelectric dam will start in January 2025.
The Ministry of Energy and Hydraulics has signed a memorandum of understanding with China Overseas Co Ltd to develop the Sounda site, according to government spokesman Thierry Moungalla.
Moungalla stated that the project, eagerly anticipated for years, aims to enhance the country’s electricity production.
The new dam, located in the south of Congo-Brazzaville, is expected to generate between 600 and 800 megawatts of electricity.
Construction is projected to be completed by June 2030, with an estimated cost of around 8.5 billion euros, financed by China.
This new project adds to China’s previous investments in Congo-Brazzaville’s energy sector, including the Imboulou dam built in 2011.
Despite these efforts, power outages are common in Congo-Brazzaville’s major cities, Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, due to mismanagement by the public electricity operator.
China has previously built three hydroelectric dams in Congo-Brazzaville, including the Imboulou, Moukoukoulou, and Liouesso dams.
