The World Bank Board of Executive Directors has approved a $250 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) as the initial phase of a $1 billion Inga 3 Development Program. This program aims to support the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in developing Inga 3, its largest power project, by investing in local communities, infrastructure, and job creation.
Access to energy remains a significant challenge for DRC's economic growth, with only 21% of Congolese having electricity access. The government is implementing investments and reforms under DRC’s National Energy Compact to increase power generation and improve the national energy utility's performance. The goal is to raise electricity access to 62% by 2030. The Inga 3 Development Program will aid this effort by enhancing institutional change and increasing power generation capacity.
Bob Mabiala, head of the Agency for the Development and Promotion of Grand Inga (ADPI-DRC), stated: “The electricity generation potential at the Inga site is one of the largest in the world. The development of Inga 3’s hydropower will be transformative for DRC. By increasing access to clean, renewable and affordable energy for Congolese households and industries, it will serve as a motor for inclusive growth and jobs. Laying solid technical and governance foundations and earning community support will be essential to realize this challenge.”
The first phase focuses on Kongo Central's local development opportunities, aiming to improve living conditions for about 100 communities near Inga. These communities will benefit from enhanced basic services like clean water, renewable energy, and rural roads. Additionally, skills development programs will prepare locals for jobs created by Inga.
The World Bank’s financial backing will assist ADPI-DRC in managing the program and preparing for Inga 3's construction on the Congo River site. This includes detailed studies, capacity building, and project structuring efforts.
Albert Zeufack, World Bank Division Director for Angola, Burundi, DRC, and Sao Tome and Principe said: “This is an opportunity to write a new page in DRC’s development story, one that harnesses the country’s rich resources to lift millions of people out of extreme poverty. By supporting DRC’s vision for Inga through this program and complementary investments in governance, education and infrastructure, the World Bank Group, together with partners can significantly contribute to converting DRC’s natural resources into economic growth, jobs, and human development for the Congolese people.”