WASHINGTON, June 29, 2026 — The World Bank today approved a $140 million project to help Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo build their national gas markets and create shared supply solutions, a move expected to lower energy costs, strengthen industrial growth, unlock an estimated $1.5 billion in private investment unlock an estimated $1.5 billion in private investment, and create jobs across West Africa.

The Power Regional Integration through Market-Enabled Gas Project (PRIME-GAS) will support the three countries in coordinating gas imports, elaborating Gas Master Plans, harmonizing regulations, and preparing critical infrastructure needed to supply the power sector and industries with more affordable and reliable natural gas. By working together to benefit from synergies and the economies of scale, the countries aim to attract larger private investments while improving energy security across the region. Financed through the International Development Association (IDA), the project will provide $55 million to Côte d'Ivoire, $45 million to Benin, and $40 million to Togo.

Reliable and affordable energy remains one of the biggest barriers to industrial growth across West Africa. Many manufacturers continue to rely on expensive heavy fuel oil and diesel, increasing production costs and limiting competitiveness. By expanding access to natural gas, PRIME-GAS will help industries reduce operating costs, improve electricity reliability, and expand production in sectors such as agro-processing, fertilizer, and petrochemicals, creating new opportunities for businesses and workers alike.

“No economy can create quality jobs without reliable and affordable energy," said Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira, World Bank Division Director for Côte d'Ivoire, Benin, Guinea and Togo. “West Africa should not have to pay some of the highest energy costs in the world when regional cooperation can help bring those costs down. PRIME-GAS is about making energy more affordable, strengthening industries, and creating the conditions for more jobs and investment across the region.”

Designed as a Private Capital Enabling (PCE) operation, PRIME-GAS will finance the technical, regulatory, and institutional foundations needed to attract private investment into the regional gas sector. By 2031, the project aims to facilitate the signing of at least two gas import agreements, prepare six gas infrastructure investments for private financing, and support the adoption of six major gas sector regulations across the three participating countries.

Beyond infrastructure, the project will strengthen the institutions responsible for managing national and regional gas markets while promoting greater participation of women in technical and leadership positions across the energy sector.

PRIME-GAS builds on the commitment made by Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo during the Regional Gas Summit held in December 2025 to develop an integrated regional gas market. Coordinated planning of liquefied natural gas imports and shared infrastructure will enable the three countries to benefit from economies of scale, reduce investment risks, and create a more attractive environment for private investors.

Over time, the initiative is expected to strengthen Côte d'Ivoire's role as a regional energy hub while positioning Benin and Togo as strategic gateways in an integrated West African gas and electricity market capable of supplying neighboring landlocked countries.

The project reflects the World Bank Group's commitment to helping countries mobilize private capital alongside public investment to deliver reliable energy, stronger industries, and better economic opportunities for millions of people across West Africa.

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