Côte d’Ivoire has announced a major partnership with Japanese and Nigerian companies to upgrade its national electricity network, a move aimed at improving access to reliable power across the country.
The agreement was finalized earlier this month and includes the development and modernization of transmission lines, substations, and smart grid systems. The upgrade is part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen its energy infrastructure, meet growing demand, and support industrial growth.
According to officials in Abidjan, the project will be executed by a consortium led by Marubeni Corporation, a Japanese trading and engineering company, in collaboration with Nigeria’s Transcorp Power, one of West Africa’s leading energy firms.
The project will involve major rehabilitation work on the existing grid, the construction of new power lines, and the introduction of digital tools such as smart meters and real-time monitoring systems. These changes are expected to reduce electricity losses, prevent frequent blackouts, and extend service to underserved areas, particularly in rural regions.
“The partnership with Japan and Nigeria marks a turning point in our energy sector,” said Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy. “It shows our commitment to modernizing our infrastructure and delivering reliable, affordable power to every Ivorian household.”
Côte d’Ivoire, one of the fastest-growing economies in West Africa, has made significant progress in recent years in expanding energy access. However, challenges remain in the reliability of supply and the aging state of its transmission systems. While electricity generation has increased, a significant portion of the population still faces intermittent service.
Marubeni, which has a long track record of infrastructure projects in Asia and Africa, will provide engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) expertise. Transcorp Power will bring in regional knowledge and technical experience from operating large-scale generation and distribution networks in Nigeria.
“This collaboration reflects the importance of regional cooperation and international investment in Africa’s energy future,” said Dr. Owen Omogiafo, President and CEO of Transcorp Group. “We are proud to play a part in Côte d’Ivoire’s development journey.”
The multi-million dollar project is expected to be financed through a combination of public funds, concessional loans, and private sector investment, with support from development agencies including the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the African Development Bank (AfDB).
Beyond the technical upgrades, the initiative will include training programs to build local capacity. Ivorian engineers and technicians will receive training in smart grid management and digital systems to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project.
Experts say the project could serve as a model for other countries in the region looking to modernize their electricity systems. If successful, it will not only boost Côte d’Ivoire’s domestic energy security but also enhance its role as a power exporter in the West African Power Pool.
Work on the first phase is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion targeted for 2028.
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