World Bank to finance Jiji-Mulembwe hydropower project in Burundi

The World Bank board of executive directors has approved $100m loan to the Republic of Burundi for its Jiji and Mulembwe hydropower project, marking a major milestone in supporting the Burundi’s energy crisis easing.

The Jiji-Mulembwe hydropower project will have two hydro stations, one on the Jiji River and the other on the Mulembwe River with a total capacity of 48MW.

A 13.5m high concrete dam is planned to be built on Jiji, producing a small 80,000-cubic meter reservoir while a 14m high concrete dam will be constructed on Mulembwe River to hold 40,000 cubic meters of water.

Burundi Energy and Mines Minister Come Manirakiza said that the government has resolved to improve energy supply for economic growth, jobs and the well-being of Burundians.

"I would like to thank the World Bank for supporting this energy project that will be developed in an environmentally and socially responsible manner," Manirakiza added.

The Jiji-Mulembwe hydropower project will replace electricity produced from alternate sources such as diesel generators that are polluting, more costly (about $0.40 per kWh) and relay on imported fossil fuels, by producing electricity at $0.10 per kWh.

World Bank Africa vice president Makhtar Diop said that World Bank can contribute to peace and stability in the wider Great Lakes region by developing hydropower responsibly.

"The Jiji-Mulembwe hydropower project will deliver clean, low-cost hydropower, and development impact for Burundi, while also protecting the environment," Diop added.

The total cost of the project is estimated at $270m, which will be funded by the government and development partners.