The Nigerien government and its technical and financial partners have reached an agreement on seven key points to revive and complete the Kandadji dam project. This consensus was achieved during a high-level roundtable discussion held in Niamey on November 11, 2026. The meeting resulted in the adoption of the Niamey Declaration, which reaffirms the partners' commitment to supporting the government in realizing this ambitious project that has been ongoing for two decades.
The agreement covers several crucial aspects, including financing, which is a primary concern. According to the declaration, partners have expressed their willingness to provide additional funding to cover the estimated $561 million gap. However, they emphasized the need to accelerate the use of already mobilized but un disbursed resources and simplify financing and payment procedures. This commitment is seen as a significant step towards ensuring the project's completion.
Another critical point discussed was the resumption of work on the dam. Partners have called for the finalization of contractual, financial, and fiduciary arrangements to allow for the effective and sustainable resumption of work. Particular attention will be paid to the regular settlement of approved accounts. This move is expected to breathe new life into the project, which has stalled for several years.
The issue of population resettlement was also addressed as part of the agreement. An integrated approach covering 17 resettlement sites has been adopted, aiming to ensure compensation, housing, socio-economic infrastructure, and sustainable livelihood restoration. This comprehensive strategy seeks to minimize the impact of the project on affected communities and ensure their well-being.
Environmental and social safeguards were also high on the agenda. Stakeholders agreed to continue implementing corrective measures under the PAR 1 and finalize environmental and social instruments. This commitment underscores the importance of mitigating the project's potential environmental and social impacts. By doing so, the partners aim to ensure that the project is executed in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Security concerns were also addressed, with participants stressing the need for an operational security coordination mechanism. This mechanism will cover construction sites, resettlement areas, missions, and supply corridors. The agreement on this point is crucial, given the project's location and the potential risks associated with it. By ensuring a secure environment, the partners can guarantee the project's smooth execution.
The agreement also covers coordination of actions, with partners committing to strengthen their collaboration under the government's leadership. A synchronization plan will be implemented to ensure that all stakeholders are working towards the same goals. Furthermore, a regular technical monitoring mechanism will be established, complemented by high-level reviews every two months to track progress, identify bottlenecks, and ensure that commitments are met.
Key points
- The Nigerien government and its partners have agreed on seven key points to revive and complete the Kandadji dam project, including financing, resumption of work, and population resettlement.
