Chamwe Kaira
President Duma Boko has emphasised Botswana’s commitment to strengthening its energy independence and improving its investment climate.
He outlined steps to boost local electricity generation, expand renewable energy, and modernise infrastructure to attract investors.
Speaking during the state of the nation address, Boko said Botswana’s current electricity demand stands at 700 megawatts (MW) at peak and 450 MW nominal, with about 65 to 70% supplied locally and the rest imported.
To ensure a secure energy supply and build export capacity, the government is scaling up both renewable and thermal power generation.
Under its renewable energy drive, Botswana is developing 900 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in Maun, Letlhakane, and Isang, along with a 600 MW thermal plant at Mmamabula.
By December 2025, more than 100 MW of solar power will be connected to the grid, while the thermal project is set for completion by December 2027.
Progress continues at the Morupule B Power Station, where three of the four 600 MW units are now operational, with the last unit expected to be completed by December 2025.
Together with Morupule A’s 120 MW output, total local thermal generation will reach 720 MW.
The government is also improving power transmission through the North West Transmission Grid phase 2, which will strengthen electricity delivery to the north-western regions and enable exports.
Boko said Botswana has applied to the I-Track Foundation to become an authorised issuer of International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs).
The move will allow the country to access global markets for renewable energy credits and create new revenue for local developers and corporate buyers aiming for carbon neutrality.
To safeguard fuel supplies, Botswana Oil Limited, with government funding, is expanding strategic petroleum reserves from 15 days to 90 days.
The Francistown Petroleum Depot expansion, which increased capacity from 38 million to 98 million litres, is 88% complete. The Gantsi Depot is 55% complete and expected to be commissioned between April and August 2026.
Boko said reforms are underway to unlock land, simplify regulations, and speed up infrastructure delivery.
One major initiative is the creation of a National Retail Payment Switch (NRPS) under the Bank of Botswana.
The first phase, defining technical and business specifications, is complete, with implementation set for the next 12 months. The system aims to improve payment transparency, reduce financial losses, and promote inclusion across the economy.
He also highlighted the impact of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as engines for export growth and job creation. One SEZ project, the Radisson Hotel, will break ground in April 2026 with a US$50 million investment, creating jobs during and after construction.
Another SEZ investor is developing a 100 MW solar power plant near Matsiloje, valued at P1 billion and expected to create 600 construction jobs and 30 permanent positions.
Through partnerships, Botswana has attracted international companies, including CCI Global, a leading business process outsourcing firm based in the UAE, which plans to establish operations in the country.
Caption
President of Botswana Duma Boko during the state of the nation address.
- Photo: Botswana Presidency
