Boureima Amadou
The Republic of Mali has finalized the final financing phase for the 225 kV North High-Voltage Loop project in Bamako (PBNB). With a total investment of 166 million euros, this initiative will serve as the backbone for power supply across the capital and its surrounding peri-urban districts. Officials highlight that the project is set to connect 10,000 additional households and small businesses, while also enhancing the reliability of electricity supply for around 40 industrial facilities.
infrastructure and technical specifications of the PBNB
The PBNB involves the construction of a 103 km double-circuit 225 kV transmission line, linking key locations such as Kodialani, Kambila, Safo, and Dialakorobougou. Complementing the line, the project includes the expansion of two existing substations and the establishment of three new transformer stations, notably in Safo and Kénié.
financial milestones and multi-lateral support
The operational phase of the project advanced in early July when the National Transitional Council (CNT) of Mali approved loan agreements signed between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Malian government. This decision followed earlier financing approvals, including a 68 million euro loan from the Islamic Development Bank in December 2025, a 43.7 million euro commitment from the West African Development Bank in May 2025, and an initial 45 million euro pledge from the European Investment Bank in December 2020.
The AfDB’s contribution of 55.7 million euros is structured through multiple financial instruments. The African Development Fund, the bank’s concessional lending arm, provided a 30.8 million euro loan, while the Transition Support Facility contributed an additional 16.6 million euros. The Climate Investment Funds offered a 4.4 million euro loan and a 5.9 million euro grant, supplemented by a 1.9 million euro grant from the Green Climate Fund. Collectively, these funds cover 36.13% of the project’s total cost, with the Malian government co-financing 3.6% of the investment.
long-term energy resilience and future integration
According to AfDB representatives, the infrastructure developed under the PBNB will integrate seamlessly with upcoming power sources, including the Guinea-Mali interconnection, the Manantali 2 line, and planned solar plants in Kambila and Safo. These enhancements are expected to significantly bolster the national grid’s capacity and reliability.
