Major Funding for Solar Energy in Mali and Mauritania: Another Step towards the Desert to Power Initiative
The Board of Directors of the African Development Fund has recently approved a financing of $302.9 million (approximately XOF 180 billion) for Mali and Mauritania. This funding is part of the Desert to Power Initiative and will be allocated to the 225 kV electricity interconnection project between Mauritania and Mali, along with the development of associated solar energy power plants.
The main objective of this project is to promote solar energy development in these two Sahelian countries and ensure universal access to electricity. It envisions the creation of a high-voltage electricity interconnection of 1.373 kilometers, with a transit capacity of 600 megawatts (MW) between the two nations. Additionally, a 50 MW solar power plant will be built in Kiffa, Mauritania, and will be connected to this interconnection, thereby connecting 100,000 new households to the electricity grid in the traversed areas.
In addition to the energy benefits, the project also aims to stimulate agricultural entrepreneurship and service opportunities, particularly for youth and women. In Mali, the project will benefit the Kayes region, reaching approximately 500.000 residents, including 20.000 households in 50 connected localities.
This initiative aligns with the regional roadmap approved in 2021 by participating countries, representing a first section of the trans-Saharan backbone that will connect Mauritania to Chad via Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The resulting interconnection will facilitate the development of new renewable energy plants, thereby contributing to quality, low-carbon, and affordable electricity production.
The financing approved by the Board of Directors of the African Development Fund includes $269.6 million for Mauritania and $33.3 million (approximately XOF 19 billion) for Mali. The remainder of the financing, with a total cost of about $888 million, will come from other partners and climate funds.
The approval of this project is seen as a significant step in the progressive realization of the Desert to Power Initiative, demonstrating the African Development Bank’s continued commitment to sustainable development and access to electricity in Africa. Officials highlight that this initiative will enhance the resilience of populations in the beneficiary areas, promoting the private sector, trade, and job opportunities.
