Burkina Faso launches energy initiatives to fuel the future
Burkina Faso has announced plans to revive its energy sector through the construction of a multi-product oil pipeline, an oil refinery, and a nuclear power plant.
This was announced by the country’s Prime Minister, Apollinaire Kyélem during his address on the nation's situation on December 1, 2023.
The country has signed an agreement with Ghana for the construction of a multi-product oil pipeline to supply Burkina Faso with hydrocarbons.
“Negotiations are continuing with the Islamic Republic of Iran for the construction of an oil refinery,” the Prime Minister was quoted by local media Aouaga.
The third initiative involves the installation of a nuclear power plant to produce electricity in Burkina. This he said will be implemented with the support of Russia.
“What seemed utopian only a short time ago can become a reality. We must dare to think outside the box if we want to build a prosperous future for our country,” said Apollinaire Kyélem.
Speaking on the Noumbiel hydroelectric dam in the country, the Prime Minister said the project will be revived not only for electrical energy but also for agriculture and water supply, local media Aouaga reported.
The Noumbiel Dam is a multipurpose dam between Burkina Faso and Ghana. It has an estimated capacity of 11.3 billion m3 for a volume of 8.8 billion m3, a hydroelectric potential of more than 303 GWh, and a hydro-agricultural potential of nearly 9,000 ha.
Apollinaire underscored the intent behind these initiatives, aiming to make up for lost time in electricity production in Burkina Faso and revive the country’s energy capacity.
