Two modern run-of-river hydropower plants on the Jiji and Mulembwe rivers have increased Burundi’s national electricity supply by about 25%. The project has created jobs, developed local technical skills, and contributed to Africa’s Mission 300. By reducing reliance on thermal generation, it also enhances climate resilience.
The Jiji and Mulembwe Hydropower Project is co-funded by the World Bank, the African Development Bank, the European Union, and the European Investment Bank. It is designed to directly (i) reduce the current electricity supply deficit, (ii) decrease reliance on costly and polluting thermal energy production, and (iii) increase the electricity access rate.