Ethiopia will continue to strengthen its power interconnection efforts initiated recently, according to Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP).
EEP Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Ashebir Balcha, stated that Ethiopia is working to further expand the electricity supply to neighboring countries. The CEO mentioned that Ethiopia is currently supplying electricity to Sudan, Djibouti, and Kenya, and plans are underway to extend the power supply to South Africa for the export market.
Balcha revealed that an agreement has recently been reached to supply electricity to Tanzania. Additionally, other neighboring countries, such as South Sudan, Uganda, and Rwanda, have expressed interest in receiving electricity from Ethiopia. Negotiations are ongoing with these countries as Ethiopia aims to strengthen its power interconnection initiatives.
Addressing the issue of infrastructure theft, the CEO acknowledged the increasing prevalence of theft of electrical infrastructure in Ethiopia. He emphasized the need for community engagement to combat this problem, as infrastructure theft severely disrupts the services provided by various power utilities, ultimately causing significant harm to the country.
EEP has been working to address this issue, with efforts underway from the district to the local level. The organization also plans to launch awareness-raising campaigns in collaboration with the media to enhance community participation in this process.
According to the CEO, as Ethiopia's electrical infrastructure continues to expand, concerted efforts involving all stakeholders are crucial to protecting these vital assets and ensuring the sustainable provision of electricity services throughout the country and to neighboring nations.