The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a US $144.27M loan to support Niger’s efforts to expand electricity access and strengthen economic governance under the first phase of its Energy Sector Governance and Competitiveness Support Program.
The initiative aims to raise national electricity access from 22.5% to 30% by 2026, while increasing manufacturing’s share of GDP from 2.5% to 3.8%. A central component of the program is the expansion of renewable energy, including the installation of 50 MW of solar capacity by 2026 and 240 MW by 2030.
“This initiative reinforces our commitment to Niger’s energy transition and inclusive development. Improving energy access and governance will lay the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth,” said Lamin Barrow, AfDB’s Director General for West Africa.
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Public-private dialogue boost
Beyond energy reforms, the program will also focus on improving public financial management, enhancing tax revenue systems, clearing domestic arrears, and promoting industrial policies that support local enterprises. It will also strengthen public-private dialogue and target social inclusion by supporting over 507,000 internally displaced persons, women, and youth affected by insecurity.
In rural areas, where only 4.5% of the population currently has access to electricity, the program will promote mini-grid development and policy updates to accelerate rural electrification. Backed by Niger’s strategic energy compact, the initiative is expected to attract $527 million in private sector investment by 2030.
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