Mali secures final funding for critical Bamako power loop to boost capital’s electricity supply
Mali has officially completed the funding phase for the 225 kV North Bamako Power Loop (PBNB), a strategic electricity infrastructure project set to transform the capital’s energy landscape. The initiative, backed by a total investment of 166 million euros, will serve as the backbone for powering Bamako and its surrounding urban areas. Official projections indicate the project will connect 10,000 new households and small businesses while significantly upgrading electricity supply quality for over 40 industrial facilities in the region.
At its core, the PBNB involves constructing a 103-kilometer double-circuit 225 kV transmission line linking key substations in Kodialani, Kambila, Safo, and Dialakorobougou. The expansion also includes upgrades to two existing substations and the construction of three new transformer stations, with major hubs planned for Safo and Kénié, ensuring robust distribution across the network.
Progress reached a decisive milestone in early July when Mali’s National Transitional Council (CNT) formally endorsed the financing agreements signed between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Malian government on February 25, 2026. This approval follows a series of earlier funding commitments, including a 68 million euro loan from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) finalized in December 2025, a 43.7 million euro pledge from the West African Development Bank (BOAD) secured in May 2025, and an initial 45 million euro investment from the European Investment Bank (EIB) secured in December 2020.
The AfDB’s contribution of 52.8 million euros—comprising a 30.8 million euro concessional loan from the African Development Fund, a 16.6 million euro loan from the Transition Support Facility, a 4.4 million euro climate investment loan, a 5.9 million euro climate fund grant, and a 1.9 million euro green climate fund grant—accounts for 36.13% of the project’s total cost. The Malian government is also contributing 3.6% toward the initiative, underscoring its commitment to modernizing the country’s energy infrastructure.
Long-term benefits of the PBNB extend beyond immediate power supply improvements. Once operational, the loop will enhance the integration of future energy sources, including the Guinea-Mali interconnection, the upgraded Manantali 2 transmission line, and planned solar plants in Kambila and Safo. These developments are expected to stabilize Bamako’s grid, reduce outages, and support the city’s growing industrial and residential demand for reliable electricity.
