Malawi’s Mpatamanga project of 358 MW moves to bidding phase

Bidders have until November 13, 2026, to respond to the referenced procedure MW-MHPL-571342-CW-RFP. The project will be built on the Shire River, in the Blantyre and Neno districts, as part of a public-private partnership.

With a capacity of 358.5 MW, Mpatamanga will feature two dams and two power plants. The IFC estimates that the facility could nearly double Malawi’s current electricity production capacity, while the World Bank projects an annual output of 1,544 GWh.

In May 2025, the World Bank approved a $350 million grant from the International Development Association to support the project, which has an expected total cost exceeding $1.5 billion, including construction financing.

According to the institution, the electricity generated will power over one million new households and enhance grid stability, particularly during peak hours. The project is being developed by the Malawian government, EDF, SN Malawi BV, and the IFC.

Mpatamanga Hydro Power Limited is the project company established in 2022 to develop, finance, construct, own, and operate the facility. It acts as the contracting authority for the tender launched on September 15.