24 Feb 2025

Government has set a target to scale up electricity to at least 8 000MW within the next four years.

This President Advocate Duma Boko said was part of the country’s efforts to modernise the energy sector with a strategic shift toward a solar energy dominated industry.

Officiating at the start of a week-long 2024 SADC Sustainable Energy Week in Gaborone on February 24, he further reaffirmed government's commitment to ensuring energy access for all, emphasising that energy was a basic and fundamental human right.

He said investing in sustainable energy was not only an environment decision but also an economic imperative.

In addition, he called on SADC member states to collaborate on reducing their dependence on fossil fuels while strengthening renewable energy capacities.

SADC Executive Secretary, Mr Elias Magosi said approximately 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lacked access to electricity, with 29 per cent of this figure being SADC citizens.

The region, he said currently had an electricity access rate of 56 per cent, reflecting a pressing need for innovative solutions.

“I therefore appeal to SADC member states to intensify efforts in expanding electricity access by creating and embracing innovative financing mechanisms and alternative access solutions,” he said.

Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Bogolo Kenewendo, underscored the importance of Botswana hosting this inaugural event, highlighting the country’s strategic role in leading energy transformation within the region.

“Over the past year, the SADC region has demonstrated remarkable resilience and progress in expanding renewable energy, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and fostering regional cooperation, however, serious challenges remain,” she said.

She further called on SADC nations to adopt innovative and structural responses to energy challenges rather than relying on short-term solutions.

The 2024 SADC Sustainable Energy Week is set to run from February 24 to 28.

It is held under the theme: Accelerating Sustainable Energy Solutions for an Energy Secure SADC Region. Ends