Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-01-28 15:51:38
Chinese companies, particularly Sinohydro, have taken on a vital role in addressing the persistent issue of insufficient electricity in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), through the construction of the Zongo II Hydroelectric Power Plant. This transformative effort boasts an impressive installed capacity of 150 megawatts, aimed at providing a quarter of Kinshasa’s electricity and significantly brightening the night sky of the city.
This development has had a profound impact on the lives of many residents in Kinshasa, particularly those residing outside the downtown area. For them, nights were once synonymous with darkness until the recent efforts of Chinese power engineers and electricians. The completion of a 220kV high voltage transmission line has made it possible to convey energy from Zongo II to the substation at Kinsuka, integrating it into the national grid.
Local residents, such as Susan, express their joy and relief at the positive impact of electricity on their daily lives. The newfound power supply has improved living conditions and facilitated businesses, as store owner Manuana Misiono Roger attests to the difficulties faced in the past and the positive change brought about by the availability of electricity.
Representatives of the State Electricity Company of the DRC have expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts of the Chinese engineers and technicians, expressing anticipation for continued collaboration to enhance Kinshasa’s power supply.
Kimbuma Angelico, the general manager of Zongo II power plant, has voiced optimism about future projects and their potential to drive development in the DRC by providing electricity access to a significant portion of the population. The Chinese-built power facilities stand as a beacon of progress, illuminating the path toward a brighter and more electrified future for Kinshasa and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
