Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, and Zambia’s Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, have held talks on a proposal to establish the Zambia-Botswana Interconnector, aimed at strengthening energy cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
According to a statement issued by Julia Malunga, the First Secretary for Press at the Zambia High Commission in Botswana, the discussions took place on the sidelines of the ongoing SADC Sustainable Energy Week in Gaborone.
“Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Honourable Bogolo Kenewendo, and Zambia’s Minister of Energy, Honourable Makozo Chikote, held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the ongoing SADC Sustainable Energy Week being held in Gaborone, Botswana. The two Ministers conferred on the proposal to establish the Zambia-Botswana Interconnector to strengthen energy cooperation between the two countries,” the statement read.
Strengthening Regional Energy Infrastructure
Minister Kenewendo highlighted Botswana’s plans to expand its national grid to the northern region, a move that aligns with the proposed interconnector project. The initiative is expected to enhance power trade, improve energy security, and foster regional integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The Zambia-Botswana Interconnector is envisioned as a key infrastructure project that will facilitate the efficient exchange of electricity between the two nations, reducing dependency on external power sources and supporting economic growth.
Advancing Sustainable Energy Goals
The meeting between the two ministers underscores the commitment of Zambia and Botswana to advancing sustainable energy solutions and regional power collaboration. As both countries continue to invest in renewable energy and infrastructure development, the interconnector project could play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for electricity and promoting energy resilience in the region.
Further discussions and feasibility studies are expected as the two governments work toward the realization of this important energy initiative.