On Saturday, October 3, 2026, Algerian state-owned energy company Sonelgaz and Senegal's national electricity company Senelec signed a memorandum of understanding in Algiers, the capital city of Algeria. The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between the two companies, with a focus on implementing Senegal's "Gas to Power" strategy. This strategy seeks to harness Senegal's gas resources to generate electricity.

The memorandum was signed by Sonelgaz's acting general manager, Nabil Kafi, and Senelec's general manager, Guy Toup, in the presence of Algerian Minister of Energy and Renewable Energy, Mourad Adjali, and Senegalese Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Hachai Abdourahmane Diouf. The agreement is seen as a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations between Algeria and Senegal, with a focus on cooperation in the energy sector.

Algerian Minister of Energy and Renewable Energy, Mourad Adjali, emphasized that the memorandum of understanding is a crucial step in strengthening ties between the two countries. He highlighted the long-standing and brotherly relations between Algeria and Senegal, as well as the shared commitment to promoting cooperation in the energy sector. Adjali also stressed Algeria's willingness to work with Senegal in the energy sector, based on a partnership approach.

The Senegalese Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Hachai Abdourahmane Diouf, praised Algeria's experience in the energy sector, particularly in the production, transmission, and distribution of electricity. He noted that the memorandum of understanding is an important step in promoting South-South cooperation and African solidarity. Diouf also announced plans to sign a cooperation agreement between the two governments in December 2026.

As part of the agreement, Sonelgaz will provide Senelec with technical assistance and expertise in the energy sector. Algeria aims to support Senegal in implementing its "Gas to Power" strategy, which involves harnessing gas resources to generate electricity. This partnership is expected to contribute to Senegal's efforts to improve access to electricity and achieve energy sovereignty.

The cooperation between Sonelgaz and Senelec is also seen as a significant step in promoting regional integration and cooperation in the energy sector. The partnership is expected to foster the exchange of expertise and best practices between the two companies, with a focus on improving the efficiency and reliability of electricity supply in Senegal.

The visit by the Senegalese delegation to Algeria is part of a broader effort to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. The delegation will visit several energy installations in Algeria to gain a better understanding of the country's experience in the energy sector. This cooperation is expected to contribute to the development of Senegal's energy sector and improve access to electricity for its citizens.

Key points

  • Algeria and Senegal have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in the energy sector.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.