The Régie de distribution d'eau (Regideso) has officially launched the construction of a new potable water production plant on the Lulua River in Kananga, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The ceremony, scheduled for Monday, October 5, 2026, marks a significant milestone in the project, which is valued at nearly $160 million. Regideso's Director-General, David Tshilumba, announced the development, noting that the project aligns with President Félix Tshisekedi's commitment to improving access to clean water in the region.
The project, which was presented to the press by Tshilumba, aims to connect over 58,000 households to the potable water distribution network. Additionally, the program includes the construction of several public fountains in various neighborhoods of Kananga, including peripheral and hard-to-reach areas. The initiative also involves building water reservoirs in almost all communes of the city to enhance storage capacity and improve the regularity of water supply.
According to Tshilumba, a substantial part of the project's financing is already available. The Regideso Director-General emphasized that the goal is to enable Kananga residents to access clean water more regularly, with an ambition to provide 24-hour service. This project is one of the most significant investments announced in the water sector in Kasaï-Central in recent years.
The construction of the water plant will be carried out by Chinese companies as part of programs aimed at improving access, governance, and reform in the electricity and water sectors, as well as the Project for Improving Water and Sanitation Services (PASEA), with financial support from the World Bank. The launch of this project is seen as a major step towards improving access to clean water in the provincial capital of Kasaï-Central.
Tshilumba and his team were received by Kasaï-Central Governor Joseph-Moïse Kambulu N'Konko on Friday, October 2, to discuss the organization of the ceremony, which will be presided over by the Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity, Aimé Sakombi. The meeting focused on ensuring a successful event and highlighting the project's significance.
Kananga has faced difficulties in accessing clean water for several years. The new water plant is expected to strengthen the city's hydraulic infrastructure and improve the regularity of water supply. The project's implementation will be closely monitored to ensure that it meets its objectives and delivers the expected results.
The successful completion of this project will have a positive impact on the lives of Kananga residents, providing them with reliable access to clean water. The $160 million investment is a significant step towards achieving this goal, and the project's progress will be closely watched by stakeholders and the local community.
Key points
- The project aims to connect 58,000 households to the potable water distribution network.
- The water plant is expected to provide 24-hour service to Kananga residents.
- The project is valued at nearly $160 million and is supported by the World Bank.
