Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Hon. Bogolo Kenewendo, has set her sights on ambitious energy goals for the next five years, aiming to revolutionize the nation’s energy sector and ensure a sustainable, affordable energy future for all citizens. During an interview with the Presidential Media team in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Kenewendo outlined her vision, focusing on making electricity more accessible and affordable for every household in Botswana.
Aiming for 100% Energy Access by 2030
One of Kenewendo’s key priorities is achieving universal energy access in Botswana. Her goal is clear: by 2030, every household in the country should have reliable access to electricity. This is a monumental ambition that would ensure all citizens, regardless of their geographical location, have the power they need to improve their quality of life, foster economic growth, and enhance social well-being.
While access to electricity is a pressing concern, Kenewendo emphasized that her mission extends beyond just bringing power to every home. “Our ambitions are to make sure that we have 100% energy access, all households access by 2030 but to also see what else some innovations are out there that we can benefit to drop the cost of electricity because it’s not just about access, it’s also about the cost of it,” Kenewendo explained.
Her vision reflects a holistic approach to energy policy—ensuring not only that electricity reaches every corner of the country but also that it remains affordable for all. This dual focus on access and cost aligns with the pressing need to balance social and economic development with financial sustainability.
Tackling the Cost of Electricity
While progress has been made in expanding access to electricity, the high cost of energy remains a significant challenge for many households in Botswana. Kenewendo’s goal of lowering electricity costs is essential to improving the lives of citizens, particularly those in lower-income brackets who are most affected by high utility bills.
Addressing this issue will require innovative solutions, such as exploring alternative and renewable energy sources, improving the efficiency of the national grid, and reducing reliance on costly imports. Kenewendo’s focus on innovation reflects her recognition that the energy sector must evolve in response to the growing needs of the population and the changing dynamics of global energy markets.
The Minister’s commitment to finding creative ways to lower energy costs is crucial for the economic development of Botswana, especially as the country looks to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on a single industry. Making energy more affordable will have a far-reaching impact, from reducing the cost of living for families to enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and grow.
Seeking Financial Partnerships at the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit
To achieve her ambitious vision, Kenewendo is actively seeking financial partners and collaborators in the energy sector. During the ongoing Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the Minister is engaging with international stakeholders to secure investments and partnerships that will help bring her plans to fruition.
The summit, which brings together energy professionals, governments, and financial institutions, provides an important platform for Kenewendo to network with potential partners who can help fund and support her energy projects. These partnerships will be essential in implementing the necessary infrastructure, developing renewable energy solutions, and ensuring that Botswana’s energy transition is both effective and sustainable.
Kenewendo’s proactive approach to seeking financial backing at the summit demonstrates her commitment to making Botswana’s energy goals a reality. With the right partners, she is confident that Botswana can move closer to achieving 100% energy access and a more affordable energy future for all citizens.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Energy Future
Kenewendo’s five-year vision for Botswana’s energy sector is a bold and transformative one. By focusing on both universal access and cost reduction, she is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable energy system. Her plan also aligns with Botswana’s broader development goals, including fostering economic growth, improving social services, and creating new opportunities for innovation in the energy sector.
As the country continues to face challenges in the energy sector, Kenewendo’s leadership will be critical in navigating these obstacles and ensuring that Botswana remains on track to meet its energy goals. By collaborating with international partners and tapping into innovative solutions, she is setting Botswana on a path toward a brighter, more sustainable energy future.
As the country moves toward 2030, Kenewendo’s vision for a fully electrified, affordable, and sustainable energy future remains a cornerstone of Botswana’s development strategy. The next five years will be crucial as Botswana works toward securing the investments, infrastructure, and partnerships needed to bring this vision to life.
