Minkouma Energy Company SA has secured CFA1.5 billion in funding from the Development Bank of Central African States (BDEAC) to launch feasibility studies for its power project, according to an official statement reviewed by Investir au Cameroun.
The financing follows a request submitted by the Cameroonian government, acting on behalf of the project company, under the bank’s Project Preparation Facility.
Approved on November 26, 2025, in Brazzaville by BDEAC’s board, the funding is structured as an advance and will partially cover the cost of feasibility studies, a key step in preparing the future energy infrastructure.
On April 1, 2026, BDEAC issued a no-objection notice, clearing the way for the procurement process to begin. Shortly after, on April 8, Minkouma Energy Company launched several calls for expressions of interest to recruit specialized firms to carry out the technical studies.
The scope of work includes additional topographic surveys, geological and geotechnical analysis, as well as hydrological and bathymetric studies. The program also includes an assessment of Cameroon’s electricity market, with a focus on industrial demand. Interested firms must register to access bidding documents, with a deadline set for April 25, 2026.
Beyond their technical scope, these studies are expected to strengthen the project’s economic assumptions, assess its profitability, and improve its bankability ahead of efforts to attract investors.
At a time when many large energy projects in the region struggle to reach financial close, BDEAC’s involvement highlights the continued role of regional lenders in preparing long-term investments, despite fiscal pressures facing governments.
Estimated at about CFA584 billion, the Minkouma project includes the construction of a hydropower dam combined with a solar component. Hydropower capacity is expected to range between 240 and 300 megawatts, with an additional solar installation of between 50 and 300 megawatts.
Once completed, the project is expected to help diversify Cameroon’s energy mix and strengthen electricity supply in an economy facing rising demand, particularly from industry.
Amina Malloum
