The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has made an investment of $135 million in financing for the Upper Atbara Dam Complex project in eastern Sudan.
This significant investment aims to bolster the region’s water and energy infrastructure and to help improve agricultural productivity and power generation, as well as reduce pollution in Kasal State. Enhanced water supplies will benefit some 160,000 farmers who rely on irrigated agriculture.
The Upper Atbara Dam Complex project is regarded as a groundbreaking initiative for sustainable water and energy resource management. It is designed to harness 3.6 billion cubic meters of water and generate 320 megawatts of renewable energy at the Rumaila power station. In addition to boosting renewable energy production, the project will provide clean water to eastern Sudan, benefiting the surrounding communities.
According to the IsDB, the project sets a new benchmark for sustainable development in the region, focusing on enhancing economic growth through improved infrastructure for water and energy resources. The initiative also aims to expand access to renewable energy and clean water, contributing to long-term development and stability in eastern Sudan.
Initially, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development provided a loan for the dam project that covered about 11 percent of the total project cost. The Governments of Algeria and China contribute to the financing of the project with loans equivalent to about KD 24.3 million ($80 million) (about 5 percent) and KD 29.2 million ($96 million) (about 7 percent), respectively. It is also expected that Arab financial institutions will contribute to the financing of the project. The Government of Sudan will cover the remaining cost of the project and any additional costs that may arise.
