Is the Grand Inga Dam facing unique challenges? Not exactly, according to Professor George Aggidis, a hydropower expert from Lancaster University. He notes that delays and partner changes are common for big projects like Inga.
He compares it to the Mersey Tidal Project in the UK, which was proposed back in 1984 but has been halted and revived multiple times. “Does that mean we have instability?” he asks. Aggidis believes the Inga project is achievable.
Alexander Schwab from Andritz, the company providing equipment for Inga 3, agrees. He signed a memorandum of understanding with Congolese authorities but hasn’t heard anything since 2021. Schwab finds this lack of communication normal, suggesting that many infrastructure projects face similar stalls. He views the Grand Inga as one of the world’s top mega projects.
However, concerns remain about the dam’s impact on the environment and local communities. Critics argue that while South African consumers and mining companies will benefit, many Congolese people will not. Approximately 80% of the population in the DR Congo lacks access to electricity. Emmanuel Musuyu, head of the Corap coalition, argues that most of the generated power has been promised to South Africa and mining ventures.
The DR Congo government has acknowledged that the dam alone won’t solve the country’s energy issues but sees it as a catalyst for broader change. The World Bank is exploring ways to support the project to ensure it benefits energy access nationally.
Environmental and human rights groups express worry over the displacement of around 37,000 residents due to the dam’s construction. Previous projects, Inga I and II, saw thousands forcibly removed without compensation. Activists highlight that these dams harmed local biodiversity, particularly affecting fish populations. Musuyu emphasizes the negative consequences of altering river flows.
A study in 2018 pointed out that large hydropower projects in Europe and the US often led to environmental disasters. The DR Congo authorities promise to resettle displaced residents in areas with essential services and claim they will provide “fair compensation.” They have also stated they will conduct an environmental impact assessment in the next two years, although funding for this study is still uncertain.
While the Grand Inga may be experiencing typical ups and downs of major projects, it is a complex undertaking that requires strong collaboration among various stakeholders. The World Bank’s interest in supporting the project remains, but ensuring unity among all parties is crucial.
As it stands, the dream of the Grand Inga transforming lives across Africa remains just that—a grand vision waiting to be realized.
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