Mali Prioritizes Electricity Rehabilitation to Strengthen Power Access Nationwide

Mali’s state-owned electricity utility, Société Energie du Mali (EDM-SA), has assured citizens of reliable, equitable and sustainable access to electricity as the country works toward reducing persistent load shedding.

The newly appointed Director General, Madani Dravé, made the pledge during an appearance on local media this week, expressing his commitment – alongside his team – to work with rigor, determination and a strong sense of public service to meet the legitimate expectations of the population.

He said the primary objective is to ensure a more stable and controlled electricity supply. The strategy focuses on two key priorities: rehabilitating and strengthening transmission and distribution networks, and expanding access to electricity nationwide.

Dravé noted that assessments of existing infrastructure revealed lapses in electricity delivery that have reduced the company’s ability to adequately serve customers. Ongoing rehabilitation efforts are aimed at addressing these shortcomings.

Work currently underway at the Darsalam (12 megawatts) and Sirakoro (110 megawatts) power plants forms part of this broader reform framework, with efforts focused on correcting network faults and restoring full operational capacity.

He also stated that the company is accelerating the country’s transition toward a diversified energy mix. Progress has already been made through the Safo, Tiakadougou and Sanankoroba solar power projects.

“Administration is continuity,” Dravé said, stressing that his objective is not to assign blame but to build on the efforts of his predecessors, who operated under challenging conditions. His priority, he added, is to guarantee a consistent electricity supply for Malians.

The utility’s reform vision – aligned with the board of directors, the State, financial partners and EDM-SA staff – centers on strengthening the energy mix to ensure more balanced and sustainable electricity distribution across the country.

Upon assuming office, Dravé introduced a scheduling system to inform citizens of electricity supply hours, enabling users to plan accordingly. He also pledged to enhance communication and continuously improve service quality.