- The DRC moves to update technical and economic studies for the Pioka-Tombe hydropower project, a national priority to close the electricity gap in Kinshasa.
- A cross-border Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Congo aims to formalise cooperation on the development.
- Preparatory steps include new topographic surveys, preliminary design work, and structuring public-private partnerships to attract investment.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially opened talks with Italian engineering firm Electroconsult to update the technical and economic studies for the 6,450 MW Pioka-Tombe hydropower project. The initiative is part of a strategic push to address Kinshasa’s electricity deficit, estimated at more than 1,000 MW, and to support industrial expansion in Kongo Central province.
On 12 March 2026, DRC Mines and Electricity Minister Aimé Sakombi Molendo met with Electroconsult officials in Milan to review the project, which was first studied by the same firm in 1978. The talks aim to refresh decades-old data and prepare the project for the next stage of development.
The Pioka-Tombe project is a cross-border initiative with the Republic of Congo. Both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 26 February 2026 to formalise joint efforts, signalling strengthened bilateral cooperation in regional energy development.
In addition to updating feasibility studies, the DRC government has outlined key preparatory measures. These include conducting new topographic surveys, preparing a detailed preliminary design, establishing an institutional and financial framework to attract investors, and structuring public-private partnerships to fund the construction and operational phases.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
