The Malian government has finalized the financing arrangements for the northern 225 kV high-voltage power loop project in Bamako, designated as a cornerstone for the capital’s energy infrastructure. With an approved budget of €166 million, this initiative aims to bolster electricity supply reliability for the city and its surrounding peri-urban areas. Official projections indicate that the project will extend coverage to an additional 10,000 households and small businesses, while simultaneously enhancing power quality for around 40 industrial facilities.

Infrastructure upgrades at the heart of the project

The Bamako northern 225 kV loop (PBNB) involves constructing a dual-circuit transmission line spanning approximately 103 kilometers, linking key locations such as Kodialani, Kambila, Safo, and Dialakorobougou. The scope of work also includes upgrading two existing substations and erecting three new transformer stations, with major hubs planned in Safo and Kénié.

Milestone approval paves the way for implementation

In an official session held in early July, Mali’s National Transitional Council (CNT) endorsed the loan agreements signed between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Malian authorities. This approval follows a series of prior financing commitments, including a €68 million loan from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) secured in December 2025, a €43.7 million pledge from the West African Development Bank (BOAD) finalized in May 2025, and an initial €45 million investment from the European Investment Bank (EIB) committed back in December 2020.

Structured financing mix accelerates project realization

The AfDB’s contribution of €166 million is structured through multiple financial instruments. The African Development Fund, AfDB’s concessional lending arm, provided a €30.8 million loan, while the Transition Support Facility extended a €16.6 million loan. The Climate Investment Fund contributed a €4.4 million loan alongside a €5.9 million grant, with an additional €1.9 million grant coming from the Green Climate Fund. Collectively, these funds cover 36.13% of the total project cost. The Malian government is also contributing 3.6% of the financing through co-investment.

Future-proofing energy transmission

Once operational, the infrastructure will serve as a critical conduit for energy generated from upcoming sources, including the Guinea-Mali interconnection, the Manantali 2 transmission line, and new solar power plants planned in Kambila and Safo. This expansion is expected to significantly improve Mali’s energy resilience and support sustainable industrial growth in the region.