The Malian government has finalized the financing arrangements for the Bamako North 225 kV high-voltage loop project (PBNB), securing a total investment commitment of €166 million. This critical infrastructure initiative is set to become the backbone of power supply for the capital city and its surrounding peri-urban areas.
According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), the project will connect an additional 10,000 households and small businesses to the grid while significantly enhancing power quality for approximately 40 industrial facilities. The PBNB involves constructing a 103 km double-circuit 225 kV transmission line linking Kodialani, Kambila, Safo, and Dialakorobougou, along with expanding two existing substations and commissioning three new transformer stations—specifically in Safo and Kénié.
Operational momentum accelerated in early July when the National Transitional Council (NTC) of Mali approved loan agreements signed between the AfDB and the Malian government on February 25, 2026. This approval follows multiple financing milestones, including a €68 million commitment from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in December 2025, a €43.7 million pledge 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 financial package comprises various instruments totaling €57.7 million: a €30.8 million loan from the African Development Fund, a €16.6 million loan from the Transition Support Facility, a €4.4 million loan and €5.9 million grant from the Climate Investment Fund, and an additional €1.9 million grant from the Green Climate Fund. These contributions cover 36.13% of the project’s total cost, with the Malian government contributing 3.6% through co-financing.
Long-term benefits are expected to extend beyond current needs. The completed infrastructure will seamlessly integrate future energy sources, including the Guinea-Mali interconnection, the upgraded Manantali 2 transmission line, and planned solar plants in Kambila and Safo, as highlighted in the AfDB’s official statement.
