The hydropower station at Mulembwe in Burundi, which was formally opened by Prime Minister Nestor Ntahontuye on 16 June, represents a significant step forward in the country's initiatives to enhance electrical energy generation.
The opening of the Mulembwe hydroelectric power station (17 MW), after the launch of the Jiji power plant (32.5 MW) in June 2025, signifies the conclusion of an important initiative focused on attaining energy independence and encouraging economic progress in Burundi. These projects were developed to address the nation’s increasing electricity demands and support long-term economic sustainability.
Situated within Burunga Province, in the southern part of the nation, these power stations represent a major achievement in the country's energy progress, boasting a total generation capability of 49.5 megawatts. The two facilities together are expected to produce 239 gigawatt-hours annually, providing electricity for 7,000 companies and 1,700 industrial sites throughout the country, along with 15,000 homes in the specific region where the project is located.
The extra power generated will foster the expansion of small and medium businesses and will additionally aid in investments, employment opportunities, and overall economic progress.
The leader of government thanked every collaborator involved in finishing the project and once again pledged his dedication to launching comparable efforts to secure an eco-friendly power outlook.
" The Jiji and Mulembwe dams mark a significant achievement in Burundi's path towards growth. Power plays a crucial role in our nation's industrial expansion, mineral industry, and upcoming rail network," stated Prime Minister Nestor Ntahontuye.
The building of the Jiji and Mulembwe hydroelectric facilities stems from strong cooperation among the Burundian government and its partner organizations, including the African Development Bank Group, the European Investment Bank, the European Union, and the World Bank Group.
The locations have already developed hundreds of local job positions and will keep providing new employment chances within the energy industry. The access to renewable power is sure to create avenues for possible private funding ventures.
Mouna Diawara, the Country Manager for Burundi at the African Development Bank Group, Jiji and Mulembwe's launch represents a significant turning point for Burundi's energy outlook. This initiative stands among the nation's key energy developments: an investment set to almost double domestic electricity production, enhance availability of cost-effective renewable energy, and lay the groundwork for expansion within the private sector, job creation, and broader economic variety. The success achieved today highlights the strength of collaboration, uniting the Government of Burundi with international support groups to construct impactful infrastructure that will fuel prospects for many years ahead.
Vice President of the European Investment Bank, Marko Primorac emphasized: "Renewable energy stands as one of EIB Global's primary areas of focus for funding, showcasing Europe's dedication to providing cleaner, cheaper, and more stable power to hundreds of millions across Africa. The activation of the Mulembwe hydroelectric facility, after the completion of Jiji, highlights the real-world effects of such financial support."
The EU Representative in Burundi, Elisabetta Pietrobon reiterated: "Jiji-Mulembwe is an exemplary initiative that closely matches the goals established under the EU's Global Gateway strategy, by enabling access to clean, sustainable, and cost-effective energy. We are especially happy with the important contribution made by European firms and their knowledge, from the early stages of feasibility analysis right up to the completion of the infrastructure." Vice President of the World Bank Group for Eastern and Southern Africa, Ndiamé Diop said: "The inauguration of the Mulembwe hydropower station represents a significant advancement in delivering dependable electrical supply to homes, companies, and community facilities, which plays a vital role in generating employment opportunities and boosting economic development. The World Bank Group takes pride in backing this endeavor together with the Government of Burundi, REGIDESO, and every collaborating entity. This undertaking perfectly corresponds with Mission 300, a bold regional program seeking to provide electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030, a vision that Burundi has embraced via its National Energy Compact."
© 2026 African Development Bank. All rights reserved. Published by AllAfrica Global Media (Ants).
Tagged: Economy, Business and Finance, Burundi, Energy, Industry and Infrastructure, Central Africa, East Africa
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).