Strategic partnerships take shape as Algeria and Chad deepen cooperation
The relationship between Algeria and Chad has reached a pivotal moment this week, marked by the signing of two pivotal agreements in energy and public works. These landmark deals, formalized during high-level exchanges in N’Djamena and Algiers, are set to fast-track infrastructure projects and reinforce economic ties between the two nations.
Trans-Saharan highway gains momentum with new infrastructure accord
In N’Djamena, Algeria’s Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, and Chad’s Minister of Infrastructure, Unblocking, and Road Maintenance, Amir Idriss Kourda, signed an agreement to accelerate bilateral infrastructure projects. The ceremony followed a coordination meeting on the second day of the Algerian delegation’s working visit to Chad.
The new accord is the latest step in a series of bilateral commitments made in April, when both countries reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening South-South cooperation. Chad’s minister highlighted the rapid progress being made, citing ongoing technical missions and the launch of feasibility studies for the Trans-Saharan highway project, which will traverse Chadian territory.
A 40 MW power plant to electrify N’Djamena
Parallel to the infrastructure talks, Algerian and Chadian energy ministers signed a separate agreement in Algiers to build a 40-megawatt power plant in N’Djamena. This initiative underscores Algeria’s commitment to supporting African energy development and deepening regional cooperation.
The agreement outlines broader energy cooperation, covering electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as equipment supply and technical training. Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, confirmed that the technical study for the project has been completed following a recent site visit by Sonelgaz teams to Chad.
Preparations are already underway for the groundbreaking ceremony, with technical teams from Chad set to undergo a month-long training program in Algeria’s Sonelgaz schools. The partnership also includes plans to upgrade N’Djamena’s existing power grid.
Milestone in Algeria-Chad relations
Chad’s Minister of Water and Energy, Passalé Kanabé Marcelin, described the agreement as a historical milestone in bilateral relations. He noted that the foundation for this cooperation was laid during Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s official visit to Algiers in April. Marcelin praised Algeria’s leadership in African energy, calling it a benchmark for the continent.
He also revealed that 12 Chadian trainees are currently undergoing specialized training in Algeria, with more programs planned. Sonelgaz International CEO Yazid Djellouli confirmed that the new power plant will be fully developed, equipped, and operated using Algerian expertise and labor.
The Chadian Electricity Company’s Director General, Saleh Ben Haliki, hailed the project as a breakthrough in the two countries’ evolving partnership, emphasizing Chad’s eagerness to leverage Algeria’s recognized expertise in power sector development.
