Felix Tshisekedi has called for a faster implementation of agreements and legal changes tied to the Grand Inga hydropower project, shortly after reports emerged that Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Africa would restart discussions on the Inga 3 phase.
During a Council of Ministers session on March 20, Tshisekedi tasked key ministries and the Kongo Central provincial authorities with completing cooperation deals with the Agency for the Development and Promotion of the Grand Inga Project within a 60-day window.
These agreements are expected to be finalised under the prime minister’s oversight and forwarded to financial stakeholders by April 3, according to an official statement cited by Bankable.
Authorities must also present a progress update within five days after that deadline, highlighting renewed pressure to advance a project that has experienced multiple setbacks over the years.
The directive comes as Kinshasa works to revive progress on Inga 3, a major part of the broader Grand Inga initiative, ahead of new talks with Pretoria.
Kgosientsho Ramokgopa is expected to visit Kinshasa in April to assess and possibly expand an existing agreement on electricity supply.
Under the current arrangement, Congo plans to supply around 2,500 megawatts of power to South Africa.
Ongoing negotiations could increase that amount to as much as 5,000 megawatts, reflecting growing electricity demand in Africa’s most industrialised nation.
Tshisekedi further directed officials to speed up work on draft legislation for the Grand Inga project, with cabinet approval targeted for March 27 and submission to parliament by March 31.
The proposed law is seen as critical for improving governance structures and meeting requirements linked to international funding.
This renewed push follows the activation of financing agreements with the World Bank in February, aimed at supporting early development phases and institutional reforms.
Inga 3 is still in its preparatory stage, with its final structure yet to be determined. Its projected capacity varies widely, ranging from about 3,000 to over 10,000 megawatts, while total investment costs are expected to surpass $10 billion.
To support development, the World Bank has approved a phased funding plan that could reach $1 billion, including an initial $250 million tranche in 2025 focused on strengthening institutions, preparing infrastructure, and addressing social and environmental concerns.
If completed, the Grand Inga project could rank among the largest hydropower developments globally, positioning Congo as a major electricity exporter across Southern, Eastern, and Central Africa.
Despite growing political commitment and international backing, the project continues to face challenges related to financing, planning, and execution.