CAR and AfDB Launch $121 Million Cross-Border Water Development Program

Bangui, September 9, 2025 - Building a Shared Future: In a major step toward sustainable infrastructure and regional integration, the Government of the Central African Republic (CAR) and the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) have officially launched a landmark cross-border initiative to develop water resources and infrastructure in the Ubangui River Basin. The Regional Support Programme for the Development of Cross-Border Water Infrastructure and Resources (PREDIRE) is set to transform the lives of over 2.4 million people in the region.

A Strategic Partnership for Shared Resources

The PREDIRE initiative, backed by a $121 million investment from the African Development Bank, reflects the strategic partnership between the Bank and the Central African Republic. At the programme’s official launch in Bangui Bertrand Arthur Piri, Minister of Energy and Water Resource Development, emphasized the alignment of the programme with the national development vision of President Prof. Faustin Archange Touadéra.

“PREDIRE is in line with the President’s vision for sustainable and inclusive development—based on equitable access to water, sanitation, food security, and environmental protection,” said Minister Piri. “It also demonstrates the strength of the partnership between CAR and the African Development Bank, a privileged partner in our development.”

Scope and Impact

PREDIRE will span five years (2024–2029) and impact both sides of the Ubangui River, covering the Nord-Ubangi, Sud-Ubangi, and Mongala provinces in the DRC, and the Greater Bangui region in CAR. The project includes:

• Construction of a 6,500 m³/hour raw water pumping station in Bangui

• A new water treatment facility and a 50,000 m³ storage tank

• 208 kilometers of new distribution network

• 15,000 social water connections

• A new headquarters for SODECA, the Central African Water Distribution Company

Over 2.4 million people are expected to benefit, 51% of whom are women. The programme particularly targets youth—71% of beneficiaries are under 35, and at least half are girls.

Dual-Track Structure

The programme comprises two sub-programmes:

1. Sub-programme 1 (now underway): Strengthens hydrological monitoring, supports climate-resilient WASH infrastructure (water, sanitation, hygiene), and prepares for large-scale investments.

2. Sub-programme 2 (in preparation): Will fund agricultural water infrastructure in the DRC, improve river navigation across the Ubangui and Congo rivers, and implement climate resilience initiatives.

Jobs and Long-Term Growth

The programme is expected to generate 3,400 jobs, including 1,200 permanent positions, through construction, maintenance, training, and economic activities linked to water supply and navigation. Beyond employment, PREDIRE lays the foundation for broader regional economic integration and more inclusive access to clean water and sanitation, thereby addressing two of the most pressing development challenges in the region.

As the Central African Republic continues its journey toward economic transformation and regional leadership, PREDIRE represents a clear milestone on the road to sustainable prosperity.