The 2022 survey, whose results were published on May 30, provides an on-the-ground look at electricity access in Botswana. The study indicates that living in a zone served by an electricity grid doesn't guarantee a supply of electricity. This is so because costs associated with service from the power grid – including fees for inspection, house wiring, and connection – may present prohibitive hurdles for many citizens. The survey findings also indicate that about three-quarters or 76% of Batswana live in zones served by the electric grid, with roughly one-quarter of rural residents amongst those enjoying a reliable electricity supply.
“Combining connection and reliability rates shows that half (49%) of all Batswana say they enjoy a reliable supply of electricity, including just 23% of rural residents and 32% of citizens experiencing high lived poverty,” reads the findings. Interestingly, the study further shows that more than six in 10 Batswana (64%) live in households that are connected to the national power grid. Amongst those who are connected to the grid, 76% say their electricity works “most of the time” or “all of the time”. About one-quarter (24%) say that power is available only “about half of the time” or less. Additionally, the study shows that the youth are also more likely to be connected (67% of those aged 18-35 years) than their elders (58%-63%).
