Algerian Radio
Commissioned by the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, alongside the Prime Minister of the Republic of Niger, Mr. Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, oversaw this Wednesday in Niamey the inauguration ceremony of the 40 MW Algeria-Niger Solidarity Power Plant in the Gorou Banda region, which was completed as a donation from the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria to the Republic of Niger.
This project embodies the high directives of the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, aimed at strengthening African solidarity and promoting South-South cooperation. It was executed by Sonelgaz International under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energies in a record timeframe of just three months, while strictly adhering to international technical standards for electricity production and transmission.
The project includes the construction of a power plant through the installation of two gas turbines with a capacity of 20 MW each, in addition to developing the electricity transmission and distribution network. This was carried out within the framework of cooperation between Sonelgaz International and the Nigerien Electricity Society (NIGELEC), thereby enhancing the exchange of technical expertise and supporting regional integration in the energy sector. In line with the comprehensive approach adopted for the project's execution—which combines infrastructure development, the transfer of expertise, and the empowerment of local capacities—special importance was given to training Nigerien human resources by organizing a specialized training session in Algeria for NIGELEC personnel.
In a speech delivered on the occasion, Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb reaffirmed Algeria's commitment, under the directives of the President of the Republic, to continue strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and cooperation with the brotherly Republic of Niger, and to work together to build a regional space defined by security, stability, development, and prosperity.
He highlighted that the inauguration of this power plant marks the beginning of a promising path for joint projects. He added that it serves as a message confirming that African cooperation, when based on solidarity, trust, and mutual respect, is fully capable of achieving development and meeting the aspirations of African peoples.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister explained that this project represents the first major, strategic milestone achieved under the new momentum of the Algerian-Nigerien Grand Joint Cooperation Committee. This partnership was significantly reinforced following the visit of the President of the Republic of Niger, Head of State, General Abdourahamane Tiani, to Algeria, which triggered accelerated political consultations and expanded bilateral cooperation programs.
He also pointed out that delivering the project more than six months ahead of schedule reflects the high level of mobilization and coordination between both sides. This achievement underscores the strong political will of the two nations' leaders to transition bilateral relations from the stage of agreements to the stage of tangible achievements.
He also touched upon the humanitarian dimension of Algerian-Nigerien relations, emphasizing that cooperation between the two nations is not limited to economic and energy sectors, but extends to projects of a social and humanitarian nature that reflect the deep brotherly ties between the two peoples. He further noted that Algeria will continue to support Niger in implementing key development projects.
The inauguration ceremony concluded with an award presentation honoring the Prime Minister, the Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, and several officials, who were presented with medals and certificates of appreciation in recognition of the efforts made to bring this strategic energy asset to fruition.
The ceremony concluded with the cutting of the symbolic ribbon and the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, marking the official entry of the power plant into service. Following this, the official delegation toured the facility to inspect the operating systems, equipment, and production units, before taking a group photograph to document the event. This milestone embodies the strength of the Algerian-Nigerien partnership and reflects a shared commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and supporting economic integration across the African continent.
