President Jacob Zuma to travel to the DRC on a working visit
His Excellency President Jacob Zuma will on Saturday, 12th November 2011, together with the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, His Excellency Joseph Kabila, preside over the signing of a ground breaking Memorandum of Understanding on the Grand Inga Project.
Upon successful completion, the envisaged hydropower project, with an estimated capacity of 40 000MW with a potential to change the African energy sector, would increase Africa generation capacity. This will enhance energy access to clean and efficient energy across the continent and contribute significantly towards a low carbon economy and economic development.
The MoU is a product of engagement between the two governments and will be signed by Minister of Energy, Dipuo Peters and her Congolese counterpart. This MOU further strengthens the existing cordial relationship between the two countries.
President Zuma has directed that the process of negotiations for a Treaty to give effect to the MoU must commence immediately, and be completed within the next six months. The proposed Treaty will create an enabling environment and necessary framework for the implementation of the project, including defined milestones for the execution of the Grand Inga Project.
The MoU also paves the way for the national utilities of both countries, Eskom and Société Nationale d’Électricité Société a Responsibilité Limitée National (SNEL), to enter into an agreement that would facilitate the execution of the project. A Technical Committee, comprised of senior officials from both countries and led by a Ministerial Commission will facilitate the finalization of the Treaty.
For further information please contact Mr. Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, on 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
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