A long-delayed hydropower dam project on the Ruzizi River, straddling Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is back in focus in recent months. Two companies are now pushing ahead with preparations for major construction works, Bloomberg reported.
U.S.-based Anzana Electric Group has partnered with Ruzizi III Holding Power Co. Ltd., registered in Rwanda, to build the 206-megawatt power plant.
Valued at $760 million, the facility is expected to “boost regional integration, consolidate energy security and stability, and pave the way for new U.S. investments and trade in Africa’s energy future,” said Anzana CEO Brian Kelly.
Public-private partnership
Ruzizi III will join two existing plants on the river, which separates South Kivu province in Congo from Rwanda’s Rusizi District. The project could nearly double Burundi’s energy capacity, raise Rwanda’s by 30%, and provide base load electricity to eastern Congo, according to the partners.
The three countries will participate in a public-private partnership to build and operate the facility, with operations expected to start around 2030.
First proposed more than a decade ago, the project has faced repeated delays due to persistent instability in the region.
Massad Boulos, an Africa adviser in the Trump administration, attended the signing of the deal between the companies during the U.S.–Africa Business Summit in Angola.
Founded in 2011 under the name Virunga Power, Anzana planned to take at least a 10% stake in Ruzizi III Holding starting September 15.
Source: Bloomberg
in ACTUALITÉ
Energy: Anzana Electric Group, Ruzizi III Holding revive hydropower project on the Ruzizi River
