WINDHOEK, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Namibia and Angola on Monday signed the Baynes Implementation Agreement, paving the way for the construction of a 600-megawatt hydropower plant on the Kunene River along their border, representing a joint commitment to enhancing energy generation for both nations.
Namibia's Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo and Angola's Minister of Energy and Water Joao Baptista Borges signed the agreement in Windhoek, Namibia's capital.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Alweendo described the signing as a pivotal milestone for the long-anticipated project, emphasizing its potential to deepen energy cooperation between the two countries and expand power generation capacity.
Feasibility studies, updated in 2023 following delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, paved the way for the agreement. Alweendo noted that funding is expected to be secured by 2026, with construction slated to begin in early 2027.
The project has garnered support from international development partners, including the African Development Bank and the New Partnership for Africa's Development, he said. "This agreement commits our governments to the successful completion of this project."
Once operational, the Baynes Hydropower Project is projected to meet rising electricity demand in the region and reduce dependence on imported energy. ■