Algeria and Chad advance major energy and infrastructure deals

Historic agreements signed to boost Algeria-Chad ties

This week marks a significant milestone in Algeria-Tchad relations, with two landmark agreements signed in the realms of infrastructure and energy. The deals, finalized during high-level visits in N’Djamena and Algiers, signal a renewed commitment to accelerating long-standing bilateral projects and fostering South-South cooperation.

Infrastructure cooperation gains momentum

In N’Djamena, Algeria’s Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, and Tchad’s Minister of Infrastructure, Unblocking and Road Maintenance, Amir Idriss Kourda, formalized an accord to streamline joint infrastructure projects. The agreement was sealed during a coordination meeting held on the second day of Algeria’s working visit to Tchad. Tchad’s minister praised the rapid progress in implementing the bilateral accords signed on April 22 in Algiers, highlighting on-ground advancements such as joint technical missions and the initiation of feasibility studies for the trans-Saharan highway crossing Tchad.

40 MW power plant project takes shape in N’Djamena

Simultaneously in Algiers, Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, and Tchad’s Minister of Water and Energy, Passalé Kanabé Marcelin, signed an agreement to construct a 40-megawatt power plant in N’Djamena. The deal aligns with Algeria’s strategic vision to support African nations through enhanced South-South cooperation. Discussions also explored broader energy collaboration, covering electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and the supply of electrical and gas equipment, alongside workforce training initiatives. Adjal confirmed that technical studies for the project have been completed, following a recent Sonelgaz team visit to Tchad.

The partners are now preparing for equipment export ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony. A team of Tchadian technicians will undergo a month-long training program in Algerian Sonelgaz schools to ensure operational readiness once the plant becomes functional. The partnership will also include the rehabilitation of N’Djamena’s existing power grid.

Milestone for South-South cooperation

For Tchad’s energy minister, the accord represents a historic milestone and a critical step forward in bilateral relations. He noted that the foundations for this cooperation were laid during Tchad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s official visit to Algiers in April. Marcelin expressed deep appreciation for Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s support in the energy sector, describing Algeria as a regional benchmark in electricity provision. He added that 12 Tchadian trainees are currently undergoing training in Algeria, with more expected to benefit from the program.

Algerian expertise at the forefront

Yazid Djellouli, CEO of Sonelgaz International, emphasized that the power plant will be fully Algerian-designed, including its equipment and workforce. Tchadian authorities are set to commence site preparations concurrently with equipment transfers and the launch of construction activities. Djellouli revealed that Sonelgaz International, established in March, has already received multiple inquiries from African countries for similar energy and infrastructure projects. Saleh Ben Haliki, Director General of Tchad’s national electricity company, hailed the initiative as a tangible outcome of the evolving partnership between the two nations, reaffirming Tchad’s eagerness to leverage Algeria’s recognized expertise in power sector expansion.