The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has secured a $1 billion commitment from the World Bank to jumpstart the long-stalled Grand Inga hydropower project, potentially the world’s largest clean energy undertaking.
An initial $250 million will support technical studies, reforms, and community infrastructure in preparation for Inga III, the next phase of the mega-dam on the Congo River. With only about 21% of Congolese currently accessing electricity, the government aims to triple this figure by 2030 under its $36 billion National Energy Compact, aligned with the Africa-wide Mission 300 initiative. Inga III alone could generate up to 11,000 megawatts — more than triple the country’s current power capacity. World Bank President Ajay Banga described the project as “transformative,” noting its potential to attract $85 billion in private investment and create lasting economic opportunities.
The project will prioritize local development in Kongo Central province, benefiting 1.2 million people through clean water, roads, and renewable energy infrastructure. Bob Mabiala, head of the Grand Inga promotion agency, emphasized the importance of technical and governance foundations. “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,” added Albert Zeufack of the World Bank. Despite past setbacks from conflict and mismanagement, Inga III is being revived as a cornerstone of Africa’s energy future.