The governments of Zambia and Botswana have concluded discussions on a long-awaited Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will pave the way for joint power generation and cross-border electricity trading.
The development follows commitments under Zambia’s recently approved Energy Compact, endorsed by Cabinet with support from the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank.
Speaking at the ongoing Energy Forum for Africa in Lusaka on Tuesday, Botswana’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, says the compact outlines reforms aimed at expanding electricity access, reducing costs, promoting private sector participation, and ensuring the financial and operational viability of utilities.
The compact also seeks to accelerate universal access to electricity and clean cooking solutions while scaling up renewable energy to strengthen energy security.
The Zambia–Botswana energy partnership is expected to enhance last-mile connectivity, expand capacity, and contribute to the Southern African region’s long-term energy security.
-Diamond TV