The ECOWAS-REAP Lessons and Result Note (LeaRN) Mission is taking place in Banjul, The Gambia, from 12 October to 16 October 2026. This evaluation assesses regional energy gains achieved through the program. Arkadius KOUMOIN, Director of Energy and Mines of the ECOWAS Commission, stated: "The mission seeks to draw on the experience gained through ECOWAS-REAP to refine implementation approaches and strengthen the delivery of other ongoing projects, and the formulation of future projects under the programme." Officials are gathering data during this period to document outcomes for future regional energy initiatives.
Project Scope and Objectives
The ECOWAS-REAP project began in 2019 to improve energy access across the region. This initiative aims to benefit 2.04 million people throughout The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, and Mali. Haddy NJIE, Project Coordinator of The Gambia’s PIU, evaluated the financial framework supporting these regional goals. "The financing envelope allocated the project which has translated into tangible impact to the Gambian population," NJIE stated. By focusing on specific beneficiary targets, the program intends to address energy deficits within these three nations. Documentation from the mission indicates that the project scope remains centered on these populations while incorporating data collected since the 2019 launch. Officials continue to monitor the distribution of these resources to evaluate the total reach of the regional energy gains.
Infrastructure and Financial Investment
The project receives support through US$225 million in concessional financing from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA). Infrastructure outputs under the initiative include the construction of approximately 3,900 kilometres of medium-voltage 33 kV lines. Technical teams also oversaw the installation of 1,060 transformer substations rated at 33 kV/400 V to stabilize the distribution grid. Additionally, the project completed the deployment of 3,700 kilometres of low-voltage 400 V networks to reach local households. Elise AKITANI, the World Bank’s project Task Team Leader, stated: "The process would provide a deliberate platform for institutional learning and aid the design and implementation of future projects." These physical assets form the core of the regional energy delivery system evaluated by the mission in Banjul.
Institutional Learning and Future Strategy
The ECOWAS-REAP project is scheduled to officially close on 31 December 2026. This conclusion marks the end of the current operational cycle for the regional initiative. Officials from the ECOWAS Commission, the National Water and Electricity Company, and the World Bank are currently finalizing documentation to capture lessons from the implementation period. These findings will assist in the evaluation of project outcomes before the formal sunset date. Technical teams are ensuring that all regional energy assets transition into their final operational status by the end of the year. Following the closure, the data gathered during the mission in Banjul will provide a reference for the design of subsequent regional energy programs. Activities will conclude across all participating nations on the designated date.