European aid is boosting access toelectricity in the Virunga region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The European Commission is to grant a further 20 million euros to finance a new power plant.
New European aid for a 15 MW power plant
The 20 million euros granted by the EU will finance the Rwanguba power plant.
This will provide a further 15 MW of electricity.
European aid has already restored 16% of the power lines and 35% of the water pipes damaged by the Nyiragongo eruption.
This has enabled half a million people to gain access to drinking water and electricity in two major hospitals.
Access to electricity crucial to economic and human development
Speaking at the European Development Days on Virunga, Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen said:
“Access to electricity saves lives and is crucial for economic and human development in this vulnerable region. This is why the European Union has reacted swiftly to support the population affected by the recent volcanic eruption of Nyiragongo. We will increase supplies, boost the number of households and schools, and provide opportunities for sustainable growth.”
The EU is supporting the construction of hydroelectric power stations and distribution networks around Virunga National Park.
The latter already supplies 70% of Goma’s electricity needs.
Power cuts endanger the population, as they lead to the spread of disease and poverty.
A long-standing commitment
The EU has been supporting Virunga National Park since 1988.
It is therefore the oldest, but also the largest of its donors.
Since 2014, the EU has supported ongoing actions with a total of 112 million euros in grants.
These contributions support the operation of the Park, hydroelectricity in North Kivu and the development of sustainable agricultural practices.
These activities have created 2,500 direct jobs and 15,000 indirect jobs in value chains.
Preventing poaching
The Virunga Park is the richest protected area in Africa in terms of biodiversity, particularly with its mountain gorillas.
The EU therefore also helps to prevent poaching, and supports sustainable forest management.
At the same time, it is investing in chocolate and coffee, and ensuring that resources reach small cooperatives.
This grant will therefore strengthen access to electricity in Virunga, and contribute to the region’s economic and human development.
What’s more, it is part of a long-standing strategy of commitment by the EU.
The international organization has been supporting and protecting the national park since 1988.
