Botswana and Zambia are planning to build a high-voltage power line to strengthen energy cooperation and boost electricity trade in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. This was announced by the Zambia High Commission in Botswana on Wednesday.
The project aims to link the two countries with a high-voltage transmission line. It is expected to improve energy security, reduce power shortages, and support economic growth in the region. It also aligns with SADC’s efforts to promote sustainable energy and regional integration.
The announcement came after a meeting between Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, and Zambia’s Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote. They met on the sidelines of the SADC Sustainable Energy Week in Gaborone, which runs from Monday to Friday. The event gathers policymakers, industry leaders, and energy experts to discuss solutions for regional energy challenges.
“There is a strong expectation from both the people of Botswana and Zambia for energy sufficiency,” said Kenewendo. “This regional interconnector will be key to achieving our shared goals of energy security and self-sufficiency.”
Chikote emphasized the importance of speeding up the project. He noted that the interconnector would benefit both countries and the wider SADC region. “We need to move swiftly to realize the benefits of this project for our respective countries and the broader region,” he said.
The Botswana-Zambia interconnector aims to increase cross-border electricity trade, promote renewable energy, and reduce dependence on non-renewable sources. By moving forward with this project, Botswana and Zambia are positioning themselves as leaders in regional energy cooperation.
The SADC Sustainable Energy Week continues to provide a platform for regional collaboration. Stakeholders are exploring innovative ways to address the region’s energy needs and ensure a stable power supply.