The energy crisis in Mali has become a major concern, not only for the country, but also for the entire West African region. In March 2025, as Mali faces growing energy challenges, the situation raises questions about the role of the Senegal River Development Organization (OMVS) and its effectiveness in managing water and energy resources.
Background to the Malian Energy Crisis
Mali, a landlocked country in West Africa, relies heavily on hydropower to meet its energy needs. About 60% of the country’s electricity comes from hydroelectric sources, mainly from dams built on the Senegal River. However, the combination of climate variability, mismanagement of resources and increasing energy demand is leading to an unprecedented energy crisis.
In 2024, the country sees an increase in electricity demand of 8% compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 1,200 MW. However, production capacity has not kept up with this trend, with stagnant production around 800 MW. This imbalance leads to frequent power outages, affecting households, businesses and public services.
The current state of Mali’s hydraulic infrastructure
Commissioned in 2021, the Manantali dam was initially expected to produce 540 GWh per year, before its installed capacity of 200 MW allowed it to reach up to 740 GWh. However, today, its production is severely limited. The causes are maintenance problems, chaotic financial management, and payment arrears accumulated with the South African operator Eskom, responsible for Manantali.
The Félou (60 MW) and Gouina (140 MW) dams were supposed to supplement this production. Gouina, in particular, was presented as an important alternative to stabilize the Malian energy network. However, in October 2022, a technical incident at the Gouina power plant caused a massive interruption of the electricity supply in Mali, Senegal and Mauritania. Since then, the production of these infrastructures has remained intermittent, and their contribution to Malian supply remains minimal.
Furthermore, Mali’s energy situation depends on several interdependent factors. First of all, the country relies heavily on imported hydrocarbons to supplement its energy mix. Due to the absence of local oil or gas production, Mali imports all of its hydrocarbon needs. A dependency that makes the country vulnerable to fluctuations in market prices and transit taxes imposed in the region.
OMVS: A key player
OMVS, created in 1972, brings together Mali, Senegal, Mauritania and Guinea. Its main objective is to promote the integrated development of the Senegal River’s water resources. The organization plays a crucial role in the construction of several dams, including the Manantali Dam, which has a capacity of 200 MW. However, despite this infrastructure, OMVS faces criticism regarding its ability to effectively manage water resources and meet the growing energy needs of member countries.
The paradoxes of OMVS
Although OMVS was created to manage water resources and promote hydroelectricity, member countries, including Mali, continue to suffer from electricity shortages. In 2024, Mali imported about 30% of its electricity, mainly from Senegal, but these imports are not enough to cover the growing demand.
In addition, OMVS’s management of dams is criticized for its lack of transparency and efficiency. Member countries often have divergent interests, which complicates collective decision-making. For example, Senegal has prioritized irrigation for agriculture, while Mali needs water for electricity production. This lack of coordination has exacerbated Mali’s energy crisis.
The consequences of the crisis
The energy crisis has a profound impact on the Malian economy. Power outages are estimated to cost the country about 2% of its GDP each year. Businesses, particularly in the industrial and service sectors, are suffering from productivity losses, which is hampering economic growth. In addition, households are forced to resort to alternative energy sources, which are often costly and polluting, such as diesel generators.
On the social level, the energy crisis also has consequences for education and health. Schools and hospitals, which depend on electricity to operate, are often affected by power outages, compromising access to education and health care.
Towards a sustainable solution
To emerge from this crisis, several solutions must be considered. First of all, it is essential to improve water resource management within OMVS. This requires better coordination between member countries and increased transparency in decision-making. Resource sharing mechanisms must be put in place to ensure that each country can meet its energy needs.
Next, Mali must diversify its energy sources. While hydropower is a key resource, the country also has significant potential in solar energy. With an average of 2,500 hours of sunshine per year, Mali could develop solar projects to supplement its electricity production. Investments in renewable energy could not only reduce dependence on hydropower, but also create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
Finally, it is crucial to involve local communities in the management of energy resources. By promoting the participation of citizens and local stakeholders, Mali can ensure that the solutions put in place truly meet the needs of the populations.
Conclusion
The energy crisis in Mali is a complex challenge that requires a multidimensional approach. Although the OMVS was created to manage water resources and promote hydropower, its effectiveness is being questioned in the face of the growing needs of member countries.
To overcome this crisis, Mali must improve resource management, diversify its energy sources, and involve local communities. By acting proactively, the country can hope for a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
