Minerals and Energy minister, Bogolo Kenewendo and Zambian Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote, met last week on the sidelines of SADC Sustainable Energy Week in Gaborone to chew the way forward for the implementation of the ambitious infrastructure undertaking. The proposed project will establish a high-voltage transmission line linking the two nations, aimed at enhancing energy security and enabling greater electricity trade within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). During discussions between the two Energy ministers, Kenewendo emphasised her country’s commitment to expanding the national grid, particularly in the northern region, which would ultimately link to Zambia’s energy network. “There is a strong expectation from both the people of Botswana and Zambia for energy sufficiency," she said. “This regional interconnector will play a pivotal role in achieving our shared goals of energy security and self-sufficiency," she added.
Officials noted that by ensuring a reliable supply of electricity, the project is expected to boost industrial growth, attract investment, and improve livelihoods across both nations. In addition, it aligns with the broader SADC’s efforts to establish an interconnected regional power market, reducing dependence on external energy sources and promoting sustainable development. Chikote underscored the importance of developing a clear roadmap to expedite the interconnector’s implementation. “We need to move swiftly to realise the benefits of this project for our respective countries and the wider region,” he emphasised.
For her part, Zambia’s High Commissioner to Botswana, Pamela Chisanga reaffirmed her country’s full diplomatic support in facilitating the necessary agreements. “We are committed to ensuring the smooth and efficient implementation of this vital project,” she said. Chisanga further highlighted that the Zambian Mission would actively engage in discussions to ensure seamless collaboration between the two nations. The involvement of both governments at the highest levels demonstrates strong political will to bring the interconnector to fruition. It is expected that once the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are finalised, key stakeholders, including power utilities and private investors, will be engaged to mobilise resources and expertise for the project. The Zambia-Botswana Interconnector is envisioned as a cornerstone of regional energy cooperation, with benefits extending beyond the two countries. By enhancing energy exchange capabilities within SADC, the project could lead to a more integrated and stable regional power supply, reducing instances of power shortages and fluctuations.
Moreover, the interconnector will complement the success of the Kazungula Bridge, a major transport and trade link between Botswana and Zambia, reinforcing the two nations’ commitment to cross-border infrastructure development. Experts believe that a stable and efficient power supply will significantly enhance economic activity, particularly in sectors such as mining, manufacturing, and agriculture, which rely heavily on consistent electricity access. As Botswana and Zambia work together to finalise agreements and begin implementation, the success of the interconnector could serve as a model for other regional energy partnerships, driving economic growth, sustainability, and resilience across Southern Africa.
