The Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo are strengthening their energy cooperation with a focus on the Pointe-Noire-Brazzaville-Kinshasa-Inga interconnection project. On October 9, 2026, the Congolese Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity, Aimé Sakombi Molendo, met with his counterpart from the Republic of Congo, Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, in Kinshasa. The meeting aimed to enhance bilateral energy cooperation, according to a communiqué released by the Congolese press agency.
The interconnection project, known as the "Boucle de l'Amitié énergétique," seeks to link Pointe-Noire, Brazzaville, Kinshasa, and Inga, promoting secure electricity exchanges and regional energy integration. The two ministers discussed accelerating the operationalization of bilateral monitoring mechanisms, updating technical studies, and mobilizing necessary funding. This project is a strategic initiative to harness the energy potential of the Congo River.
In addition to the interconnection project, the ministers reviewed the progress of the Pioka-Tombe hydroelectric project, another key aspect of their cooperation. The project aims to transform the Congo River's energy potential into concrete infrastructure, supporting access to electricity, economic development, and regional integration. Both countries reaffirm their commitment to cooperation in the energy sector.
The meeting between the two ministers demonstrates the commitment of the DRC and the Republic of Congo to strengthening their energy cooperation. By working together, they aim to address the energy challenges facing their regions. The interconnection project and the Pioka-Tombe hydroelectric project are crucial initiatives in this regard.
The DRC and the Republic of Congo have a long history of cooperation in various sectors, including energy. The current efforts to enhance energy cooperation are expected to have a positive impact on the economic development of both countries. The projects will also contribute to the integration of the regional energy market.
The Congolese press agency reported that the two ministers agreed to work closely together to ensure the successful implementation of the interconnection project and the Pioka-Tombe hydroelectric project. The projects are expected to boost economic growth, create jobs, and improve access to electricity in the region.
The energy cooperation between the DRC and the Republic of Congo is a significant step towards achieving regional energy integration and addressing the energy deficit in the region. The two countries are committed to working together to harness their energy potential and promote economic development.
Key points
- The DRC and Republic of Congo are working together to strengthen energy cooperation through the Pointe-Noire-Brazzaville-Kinshasa-Inga interconnection project.
- The project aims to promote secure electricity exchanges and regional energy integration.
- The two countries also discussed the progress of the Pioka-Tombe hydroelectric project.
