Strengthening cooperation between Madagascar and the UAE

President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar recently received the credentials of the new Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, Dr. Salim Ibrahim Bin Ahmed Mohamed Alnaqbi. The discussions centered on enhancing cooperation between the two nations, particularly regarding the Sahofika hydroelectric project.

President Rajoelina expressed a strong interest in securing Emirati funding to accelerate the development of the Sahofika project. This initiative is part of the broader efforts to strengthen bilateral collaboration between Madagascar and the UAE, which has been growing following official visits and diplomatic engagements.

The Sahofika project, a major hydroelectric power initiative with an initial capacity of 120 megawatts, has the potential to expand to 300 megawatts. Alongside the Volobe project, Sahofika is considered one of the most significant energy projects in Madagascar. However, its progress has faced delays, particularly due to the departure of Eiffage, one of the original project shareholders.

The NEHO consortium formed a few years ago, won the contract to construct and operate the hydroelectric plant. In November 2021, agreements on construction, concession, and power purchase were finalized after extensive negotiations. Now, the Malagasy government is keen to involve the United Arab Emirates in the project, possibly through Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company. Founded in 2006, Masdar has established itself as a global leader in renewable energy, backed by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund.