The Djibouti Multisector Regulatory Authority (ARMD) participated in the 8th General Assembly and the 17th Workshop of the Francophone Network of Energy Regulators (RegulaE), held in Nouakchott, in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. This major international event brought together regulatory authorities from the Francophone world to discuss contemporary issues in the regulation of the electricity and energy sectors. These discussions took place within a context marked by the energy transition, the imperative for resilient electrical systems, and the need to enhance investment attractiveness. The ARMD was represented at these activities by its Director General, Mr. Abdi Ilmi Achkir, and its Director of Economics, Competition, and Markets, Mr. Farah Ahmed Guedi.
The RegulaE Network
Established in Paris on November 28th, 2016, on the initiative of the French regulator with the support of European, African, and North American partners, this network promotes dialogue among authorities sharing common legal frameworks and encourages the convergence of regulatory practices.
ARMD's accession to the Francophone Network of Energy Regulators in 2024 marks a significant step forward in its international outreach and the strengthening of its institutional profile. It reflects the authority's commitment to becoming a lasting participant in a dynamic of cooperation and technical exchange within the Francophone sphere.
The General Assembly of Francophone Energy Regulators
Organized with the support of Mauritanian authorities and technical and financial partners, this meeting provided a privileged forum for exchanging experiences, sharing best practices, and strategic consultation among regulators. The proceedings notably focused on the modernization of regulatory frameworks, the regulation of renewable energies, the structuring of electricity markets, and the strengthening of the institutional capacities of regulatory authorities.
A Strategic Platform for Francophone Cooperation in Energy Regulation
The Francophone Network of Energy Regulators (RegulaE) plays a central role in promoting independent, transparent, and effective regulation within the Francophone world. Through its workshops and general assemblies, the network fosters the convergence of regulatory practices, the gradual harmonization of intervention frameworks, and the development of common benchmarks for energy governance.
The 8th General Assembly adopted the network’s strategic direction for the coming period, with a focus on the energy transition, regional integration of electricity markets, and improving service quality for the benefit of consumers. The discussions also highlighted the important role of regulators in supporting national public policies, while ensuring a balance between the financial sustainability of operators, consumer protection, and attractiveness to private investment.
Statement by the Director General of ARMD: Current State and Future Prospects of the Electricity Sector in Djibouti.
On this occasion, the Director General of ARMD, Mr. Abdi Ilmi Achkir, delivered an address highlighting the structural developments within Djibouti's electricity sector and the ongoing reform perspectives.
In his speech, he emphasized that the electricity sector reform is part of the strategic framework of Djibouti Vision 2035, initiated by His Excellency President Ismail Omar Guelleh and adopted in 2014. This vision positions energy as a key lever for economic competitiveness and the country's structural transformation. The 2015 law was a decisive step, introducing openness to independent power production and allowing independent power producers (IPPs) to enter the national energy mix. This momentum was strengthened in 2017 with the establishment of a public-private partnership (PPP) legal framework, designed to enhance the bankability of energy projects through a more balanced contractual allocation of risks.
Current Market Organization and Structural Challenges
The Director General also outlined the current organization of Djibouti's electricity market. It remains structured around an integrated monopoly model, with limited openness in the generation segment. Independent producers operate mainly in the renewable energy sector, based on long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) concluded with the historical utility. Transmission, distribution, and supply activities remain integrated and are operated as a monopoly by the Electricity of Djibouti (EDD).
Priority Reforms and the Regulator's Strengthened Role
Based on these observations, several priority areas for reform were highlighted. These notably include: The adoption of a renewable energy framework law, Improving the framework applicable to independent producers, Standardizing power purchase agreements (PPAs), Implementing a sustainable tariff reform and Modernizing grid infrastructure as well.
A Strategic Participation in Service of Djibouti Vision 2035
ARMD's participation in the 8th General Assembly and the 17th RegulaE Workshop reflects a proactive approach to integrating into international regulatory networks and enhancing institutional capacity. It allows the Authority to draw inspiration from best practices observed among Francophone countries, anticipate regulatory and technological developments, and consolidate its credibility on the regional and international stage.
By strengthening its position within Francophone regulatory networks, ARMD enhances its ability to support the gradual market opening, secure investments, and protect consumer interests, in line with the harmonious and sustainable development of the energy sector.
Source : ARMD
