The World Bank logo is seen at the 2023 Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund in Washington, U.S., April 13, 2023.
The World Bank stated: “The Mpatamanga Hydropower Storage Project would help supply electricity to over 1 million new households and create thousands of jobs.” The project, a public-private partnership with an estimated total cost exceeding $1.5 billion, marks the largest foreign direct investment in Malawi’s history.
In September 2022, the Malawian government chose a consortium led by Electricité de France and SN Malawi BV, which includes British International Investment, Norfund, and TotalEnergies, to oversee the project “‘s development and implementation. This collaboration will drive the construction and operation of the hydropower facilities.
The Mpatamanga project will generate 358 megawatts, effectively doubling Malawi’s current hydropower capacity. It involves building two dams along the Shire River, strategically located between two existing hydropower plants. This expansion will bolster the nation’s energy infrastructure, ensuring a reliable power supply for domestic consumption.
By increasing access to electricity, the project will support households, businesses, and industries, fostering sustainable development in Malawi. The initiative aligns with efforts to meet growing energy demands while prioritizing local consumption and job creation.
The World Bank’s funding and the consortium’s expertise highlight a commitment to advancing Malawi’s renewable energy sector, contributing to long-term energy security and economic resilience in Southern Africa.
