CEMAC: Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, united by 10 MW of electricity

Equatorial Guinea and Gabon have taken a decisive step in Central Africa’s energy integration with the inauguration of a 20 kW hydroelectric interconnection, enabling Gabon to save 2 billion CFA francs annually in diesel costs. The ceremony, held on February 22, was led by Presidents Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who symbolically lit the lights on the Gabonese side, marking the start of operations for this cross-border network.

Located on the border between Ebibeyín (Equatorial Guinea) and Bitam (Gabon), this infrastructure will initially allow the import of 3 MW of energy to supply Bitam and its surroundings. In the future, the capacity will be expanded to 10 MW, benefiting key localities such as Oyem, Medouneu, Mitzic, and Minvoul. Backed by the African Development Bank with over $5 billion, this project represents a significant advancement in regional energy integration and a reduction in dependence on fossil fuels.

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Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema emphasized that this interconnection strengthens diplomatic and economic ties between both nations. “We are united by history, and our integration materializes through projects that benefit our people,” he stated. Meanwhile, President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo highlighted the importance of energy cooperation as a driver of sustainable development in Central Africa.

The interconnection is the result of an agreement signed on February 8 during the Sixth Extraordinary Session of the Conference of Heads of State and Government of Central African States. This project is part of a strategic plan launched in 2007 and consolidated in 2019 with the signing of a memorandum of understanding to establish power grids between Mongomo-Oyem, Ebibeyín-Bitam, and Akourenam-Medouneu. The execution was carried out by the Chinese company Sinohydro Corporation, under the supervision of the Equatorial Guinean government to ensure high-quality standards.

The inauguration of this infrastructure marks the beginning of a new era for electricity supply in the region, with a commitment to expanding the grid and improving energy stability in more communities. With the presence of ECCAS and CEMAC authorities, this project symbolizes progress toward an efficient and sustainable regional electricity market.