Mali secures funding for Bamako north 225 kv power loop

Historic financing milestone reached for Mali’s energy backbone

The Government of Mali has finalized the last funding phase for the 225 kV North Bamako Power Loop (PBNB), a landmark project set to transform the capital’s electricity supply. With a total investment of €166 million, this high-voltage loop will serve as the primary power source for Bamako and its surrounding areas, ensuring reliable energy for thousands of households and businesses.

The project, as outlined by the African Development Bank (AfDB), will connect 10,000 new households and small enterprises, while significantly enhancing power quality for 40 industrial facilities in the region. Beyond immediate benefits, the PBNB is designed to integrate seamlessly with future energy sources, including the planned Guinea-Mali interconnection and solar power stations in Kambila and Safo.

Infrastructure breakthroughs in the pipeline

The PBNB involves the construction of a 103 km double-circuit 225 kV transmission line, linking key substations in Kodialani, Kambila, Safo, and Dialakorobougou. In addition, the project includes the expansion of two existing substations and the establishment of three new ones at critical locations like Safo and Kénié.

In early July, the National Transitional Council (NTC) of Mali officially endorsed the loan agreements signed between the AfDB and the Malian government. This approval follows earlier financing commitments, including:

• A €68 million loan from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in December 2025
• A €43.7 million pledge from the West African Development Bank (BOAD) in May 2025
• An initial €45 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB) in December 2020

AfDB leads with concessional financing tools

The AfDB’s €166 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 from the Climate Investment Fund
• A €5.9 million grant from the same fund
• A €1.9 million grant from the Green Climate Fund

These resources cover 36.13% of the total project cost, with the Malian government contributing an additional 3.6% through co-financing.

Long-term energy resilience for Mali

Once operational, the PBNB will not only stabilize Bamako’s power grid but also pave the way for new renewable energy projects. The loop’s design ensures compatibility with upcoming infrastructure like the Manantali 2 transmission line and solar farms in Kambila and Safo, reinforcing Mali’s energy independence and sustainability.