Angola And Namibia Sign Landmark ANNA Deal To Boost Cross-Border Power Connectivity

Angola and Namibia have taken an important step toward energy independence and regional cooperation by signing key agreements for a major cross-border electricity project. Known as the Angola-Namibia Power Interconnection Project, or ANNA, this initiative will connect the national power grids of both countries for the first time.

The agreements were signed in Luanda on April 14, 2026. Officials from the National Electricity Transmission Network and NamPower finalized a Joint Development Agreement and a Power Purchase Agreement. These documents define how the project will be developed, financed, and operated.

The core of the project is a 166-kilometer high-voltage transmission line. Around 136 kilometers will be built in Angola, while the remaining 30 kilometers will be constructed in Namibia. Once completed, the system will have the capacity to transfer up to 500 megawatts of electricity. This is expected to significantly improve the reliability of the power supply in both countries.

For Angola, the project offers an opportunity to export surplus electricity generated mainly from its hydroelectric plants. By supplying power to Namibia and potentially other countries in the region, Angola can earn additional revenue. The project is also being supported by an innovative financing model that aims to avoid increasing national debt.

Namibia, on the other hand, will benefit from a stable and consistent electricity supply. The country has been facing growing demand for energy, and this interconnection will help reduce dependence on costly imports and strengthen energy security. It will also support efforts to diversify power sources.

The total investment for the project is estimated at about 52.3 million dollars. In addition to the main transmission line, the plan includes expansion of substations in both countries and development of new domestic transmission lines. These improvements will help ensure that electricity reaches homes, businesses, and industries more efficiently.

The project also opens the door for Angola to join the Southern African Power Pool, a regional platform that allows countries to trade electricity and share resources. This could further enhance regional energy integration.

Leaders from both nations have described the agreement as a strategic partnership that goes beyond infrastructure. They believe it will improve everyday life by providing more reliable electricity and supporting economic growth. With agreements now in place, the next step will be a formal groundbreaking ceremony, with the project expected to be completed by 2029.