Algeria boosts Sahel energy ties with new power plant in Chad

Following its recent project in Niger, Algeria is expanding its regional influence with a new energy initiative in Chad. The Algerian government continues to implement tangible projects aimed at fostering economic and social stability across the Sahel through strategic partnerships.

On June 8, Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb arrived in N’Djamena to launch the groundbreaking ceremony for a 40-megawatt power plant, a gift from Algeria to Chad. This marks the second such project Sonelgaz International has completed in the region within weeks, after commissioning a similar facility in Niamey just five days prior in under 70 days.

Algeria delivers 40-megawatt power plant to Chad

The new facility, constructed by Sonelgaz International, represents Algeria’s commitment to regional development under the directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The ceremony took place in the Farcha industrial zone in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, and was attended by both Ghrieb and Chadian Prime Minister Allamaye Halina.

During his address, Ghrieb highlighted the project as a symbol of the unwavering political will uniting both nations. He emphasized that this initiative embodies the shared vision of Algerian and Chadian leaders to elevate bilateral relations into a robust strategic partnership built on mutual interests, solidarity, and sustainable development.

Beyond its symbolic value, the project signifies a critical milestone in strengthening Algerian-Chadian ties, transitioning from planning to active implementation of joint ventures. Ghrieb noted that this development stems from the momentum generated during Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s official visit to Algeria in April 2026.

energy cooperation drives Sahel development

Ghrieb underscored the project’s profound economic, social, and humanitarian significance, particularly its role in bolstering Chad’s energy capacity and supporting national development goals. He stressed that energy remains a cornerstone for economic growth, investment attraction, industrial expansion, public service enhancement, and overall citizen welfare.

« Where energy flows freely, economic opportunities flourish, social transformation accelerates, and living standards rise », he stated. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Algeria’s conviction that effective African cooperation can drive sustainable development through concrete projects that directly benefit local communities and strengthen national economies.

« We envision an Africa rooted in genuine solidarity, impactful initiatives, productive investments, and partnerships that generate wealth and opportunity across the continent », Ghrieb declared.

Algeria’s strategic energy push across africa

Looking ahead, Algeria and Chad plan to expand their collaboration with additional energy-related ventures, including the development of a refinery in N’Djamena, geological exploration partnerships, seismic studies, and joint training programs. The two nations are also establishing permanent consultation mechanisms to coordinate efforts across the entire energy value chain.

During the inauguration of the Niamey power plant, Energy Minister Mourad Adjal revealed that Sonelgaz International is receiving increasing requests for its expertise from multiple African nations, including Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mozambique. The newly established international arm of Sonelgaz has already initiated preparations for further projects across the continent.

Algeria’s energy diplomacy extends beyond electricity, encompassing oil and gas ventures such as the Kafra oil field in northern Niger. Just days prior, the groundbreaking for the Algerian segment of the Nigeria-Niger Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline was held in Adrar, attended by petroleum ministers from both countries.