The project, formally known as the 'Feasibility and In-depth Studies on the Development of Lake Chad' (PIDA Code W.30.07), is a comprehensive, multi-component initiative led by the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) to address the severe ecological and socio-economic crisis caused by the lake's dramatic shrinkage. The lake's surface area has declined from approximately 25,000 km² in the 1960s to less than 2,500 km² today, affecting over 40 million people in the basin. The project's core components include: 1) Technical studies on silting, sedimentation, and water quality; 2) Development of a sediment dredging and water distribution programme; 3) Combatting invasive plant species (notably Typha); 4) Restoring navigation capabilities and creating landing facilities; 5) Reviving sustainable fishing and irrigated agriculture; and 6) Enhancing regional water security. It is a foundational study phase intended to inform subsequent large-scale infrastructure investments, such as the proposed inter-basin water transfer project from the Congo Basin (Transaqua). The project operates in a complex environment marked by security challenges from Boko Haram and requires intensive coordination among the six LCBC member states (Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Libya) and observer countries.
PIDA Code
W.30.07
Project Status
Active
Project Stage
Transaction Support & Financial Close
Completion Percentage
0
Sector Name
Water
Subsector Name
Water Supply
Reference Plan
PIDA PAP 2
On SDM
Off
Summary
This is a critical preparatory study project under the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) water sector, managed by the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC). It advanced from PIDA Stage S1 (Project Definition) to Stage S2B (Feasibility) between 2022 and 2024. The project aims to lay the technical groundwork for halting and reversing the lake's decline, which is vital for regional stability, food security, and livelihoods. Key stakeholders include the LCBC Secretariat (Executive Secretary: Ambassador Mamman Nuhu), the member state governments, the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Development Bank (AfDB) as a key development partner, and other international organizations. Recent developments include the ongoing coordination of feasibility studies and the LCBC's revision of its Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS-SRR) in 2024.
Description
Capex Cost
21.60USD million
Preparation Cost
0.00
Operation Cost
0.00
Project Risk
Implementation and coordination risks
Countries
Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Niger, Nigeria
Stakeholders
Lake Chad Basin Commission
Start Date
Date Created Raw
Updated Date