Mali has successfully finalized the funding for the 225 kV North Bamako high-voltage loop (PBNB), a critical infrastructure project designed to bolster the capital’s power supply. With a total investment of €166 million, this initiative aims to reinforce the backbone of Bamako’s electricity network and its surrounding peri-urban areas. The project is set to connect 10,000 additional households and small businesses while significantly enhancing power quality for nearly 40 industrial facilities.
Project scope and infrastructure upgrades
The PBNB involves constructing a 103 km double-circuit 225 kV transmission line linking key locations such as Kodialani, Kambila, Safo, and Dialakorobougou. In addition to the new line, the project includes expanding two existing substations and building three new transformation substations, notably in Safo and Kénié. These enhancements are expected to streamline power distribution and reduce outages across the region.
Funding milestones and financial backing
The project’s operational phase kicked off in early July when Mali’s National Transitional Council (CNT) approved loan agreements signed between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Malian government. This ratification follows earlier financing commitments, including a €68 million loan from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in December 2025, a €43.7 million loan from the West African Development Bank (BOAD) in May 2025, and an initial €45 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB) in December 2020.
The AfDB’s €57.7 million contribution is structured through multiple financial instruments. The African Development Fund, the bank’s concessional lending arm, provided a €30.8 million loan, while the Transition Support Facility contributed €16.6 million. Additional support includes a €4.4 million loan and a €5.9 million grant from the Climate Investment Fund, alongside a €1.9 million grant from the Green Climate Fund. These funds collectively cover 36.13% of the project’s total cost, with the Malian government contributing an additional 3.6% through co-financing.
Long-term energy resilience and future integration
Once completed, the PBNB will serve as a vital link in Mali’s broader energy strategy. It will facilitate the integration of future power sources, including the Guinea-Mali interconnection, the Manantali 2 line, and solar plants planned for Kambila and Safo. This infrastructure will not only stabilize Bamako’s electricity supply but also pave the way for sustainable energy growth in the region.