DRC Ministers Discuss Financing for Key Energy Projects
In a bid to revitalize the energy sector, a crucial pillar for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s development, Minister of Finance Doudou Fwamba Likunde and Minister of Hydrological Resources Teddy Lwamba met on Sunday, July 7, 2024, to discuss the financing of impactful rapid projects.
The ministers reviewed major initiatives such as the Grand Inga project, undertaken in partnership with the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB), as well as other significant projects like Katende, Kakobola, and Tshopo II.
“It is essential to invest in this sector. We discussed how the Public Treasury can allocate additional resources for financing, as sustainable and clean growth cannot be supported without adequate funding,” stated Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba.
“Our focus must be on the needs of our population, and we must act swiftly to address these needs,” he added.
Fwamba emphasized that this discussion aligns with the implementation of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa’s program under the directives of the Head of State.
Minister Lwamba proposed projects aimed at adding 35 MW of additional energy to various entities where networks already exist.
“In our effort to materialize the vision of the Head of State and fulfill the Government’s plan as per the Prime Minister’s wishes, I sought collaboration with my colleague from Finance,” stated Minister Lwamba.
He highlighted the importance of increasing energy availability in the network and improving access to clean water in underserved areas.
“We are laying the groundwork for our collaborative efforts and exploring how public finances can support the realization of these projects,” concluded Minister Lwamba.