Plans for one of Africa’s largest hydropower projects are back in focus, as South Africa explores a potential deal to secure up to 5,000 megawatts of electricity from a proposed mega dam in the region, according to Reuters.
The project, widely linked to large-scale developments along the Zambezi River, is estimated to cost around $10 billion and is designed to address Southern Africa’s persistent power shortages while enabling cross-border electricity trade. The initiative reflects renewed momentum around regional energy integration, with countries seeking to pool resources to meet growing demand.
South Africa, which continues to face chronic electricity constraints, is positioning itself as a key off-taker of the planned output, with discussions centred on long-term supply agreements that could stabilise its energy mix and reduce reliance on coal-fired generation.
Analysts say reviving the mega dam project underscores a broader continental shift toward large-scale renewable infrastructure, as African economies increasingly invest in hydropower to support industrial growth, energy security, and regional cooperation.
