Algeria and Chad break ground on new 40 MW power plant in N’Djamena
Chad and Algeria have officially launched construction of a 40-megawatt power plant in N’Djamena, fully funded by Algiers. The project, spearheaded by Sonelgaz International, aims to address Chad’s persistent energy shortages while deepening economic and energy collaboration between the two nations—just weeks after a similar facility was commissioned in Niger.
- Politics
The groundbreaking ceremony in Chad’s capital brought together Prime Minister Allah-Maye Halina of Chad and Algerian counterpart Sifi Ghrieb to mark the launch of the “Algeria-Chad Solidarity Power Plant.” The 40 MW facility, to be built by Sonelgaz International—a subsidiary of Algeria’s state-owned energy giant Sonelgaz—will significantly boost Chad’s struggling power grid, where demand far outstrips supply.
Sifi Ghrieb arrived in N’Djamena at the helm of a high-level delegation, including Algeria’s Ministers of Hydrocarbons, Energy and Renewable Energies, alongside executives from state-backed companies in hydrocarbons, energy and infrastructure. The visit underscores Algeria’s strategic push to strengthen bilateral ties through tangible, people-centered projects.
In a statement, Algerian authorities framed the project as part of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s vision of African cooperation rooted in solidarity and mutual benefit. Speaking at the ceremony, Sifi Ghrieb emphasized Algeria’s belief in “effective African cooperation that delivers real development through concrete, population-focused initiatives.” He also highlighted Algeria’s commitment to “active solidarity, productive investment and wealth-creating partnerships serving African peoples.”
Energy cooperation is fast becoming a cornerstone of Algeria’s economic engagement in the Sahel. Less than a week prior, Algiers inaugurated an identical 40 MW plant in Niger, also built by Sonelgaz International, signaling a regional strategy to expand reliable power access across West Africa.
During talks in N’Djamena, both delegations explored broader continental initiatives, including the Trans-Saharan Highway, fiber-optic networks and enhanced air and logistics links to facilitate regional trade. On security, Algeria and Chad reaffirmed their commitment to closer diplomatic coordination on Sahel and African issues, prioritizing African-led solutions and state sovereignty.
Since 2020, Algeria’s International Cooperation Agency for Solidarity and Development has allocated over one billion dollars toward infrastructure, energy and economic projects across Africa, reinforcing the country’s role as a key development partner on the continent.
