L’Energie centrafricaine (ENERCA) has initiated an investigation into branded equipment found on markets in Bangui, entrusting the Section des recherches et d’investigations (SRI) with the inquiry. The national electricity company has formally mandated the Section des recherches et d’investigations (SRI) to undertake this investigation. The inquiry aims to determine the origin and presence of ENERCA-branded materials reportedly being sold in public markets, including Miskine market in the 5th arrondissement. This move by the national electricity company comes as it seeks to understand how its property may have entered informal trade channels, raising concerns about the integrity of its distribution systems.
Subsidized Program Details
ENERCA launched subsidized connection operations in Bangui in July 2026, aiming to provide more accessible electricity services to residents. These operations involve the distribution of essential electrical equipment, such as meters and circuit breakers, at a significantly reduced price. The subsidized electrical equipment for connection costs 5,000 CFA francs, a measure intended to alleviate financial barriers for new subscribers. This subsidized rate is a key component of ENERCA's strategy to make electricity affordable and widely available. The program's goal is to expand the reach of the national electricity grid and ensure that more households can access reliable power, thereby improving living conditions and supporting economic development in the capital.
Discovery on Markets
Equipment bearing the ENERCA brand has been discovered on various public markets in Bangui. The Miskine market, located in the city's 5th arrondissement, was specifically identified as one location where these materials were found. These tools, clearly marked with the ENERCA brand, were observed being sold openly. This discovery prompted L’Energie centrafricaine (ENERCA) to launch an investigation, seeking to understand how its branded tools and equipment, typically used for official installations, came to be available for sale in informal trade channels. The national electricity company is working to trace the origin of these items, which include materials intended for subsidized connection operations. The presence of these branded goods on the market raises questions about their diversion from official distribution channels and potential illicit trade.
Official Statement
Bienvenu Mony Beya, interim Director General of L’Energie centrafricaine (ENERCA), provided further details regarding the ongoing investigation to Oloria Sang. The Director General addressed the discovery of ENERCA-branded equipment on Bangui markets, which has prompted the national electricity company to initiate an inquiry. Mr. Mony Beya elaborated on the nature of the items in question, confirming they are typically associated with ENERCA's subsidized connection operations, which aim to provide affordable electricity access to residents. Mr. Mony Beya offered clarifications on the company's efforts to trace the origin of these materials found in informal trade, emphasizing the seriousness with which ENERCA views the situation. "Bienvenu Mony Beya, directeur général par intérim de l’ENERCA donne plus de précisions au micro de Oloria Sang," the interim Director General stated, noting the company's commitment to transparency and resolving the issue. The investigation by the Section des recherches et d’investigations (SRI) is underway to determine how the equipment entered public markets and to identify those responsible for its diversion.
Investigation Mandate
L’Energie centrafricaine (ENERCA) has mandated the Section des recherches et d’investigations (SRI) to investigate the appearance of its branded equipment on Bangui markets. The inquiry aims to determine how materials intended for official use, including those from subsidized connection operations, are being sold in public markets such as Miskine market in the 5th arrondissement. This formal entrustment shows the gravity of the situation for the national utility provider. Bienvenu Mony Beya, interim Director General of ENERCA, confirmed the investigation, reiterating the company's commitment to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the availability of its property in unauthorized sales channels. The SRI's findings are expected to shed light on potential breaches in the supply chain or distribution network.
