The Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, has unveiled a bold roadmap under the 12th National Development Plan (NDP 12) aimed at transforming Botswana into a regional energy hub while diversifying its mining industry beyond diamonds.
Presenting before Parliament on October 21, 2025, Kenewendo said the strategy focuses on expanding power generation, promoting renewable energy, and deepening citizen participation in both energy and minerals. “Our focus under NDP 12 is to position Botswana as a top mining business jurisdiction and a regional energy hub powered by citizens and clean energy,” she said.
Electricity generation has improved from 755MW to 965MW, with renewable energy rising from 1.3% to 8% of total supply. The growth is driven by Independent Power Producers (IPPs), which have contracted 832MW of capacity, with three projects already delivering 54MW. The Rooftop Solar Programme has also added 23MW, empowering citizens to contribute to power generation.
National electrification has reached 83%, with household access up from 69% to 76% thanks to the Zero Connection Cost initiative introduced in 2024. Kenewendo said government remains committed to achieving universal electricity access by 2030.
To secure long-term energy supply, Botswana plans to build 4.8GW of power generation capacity by 2030, supported by renewable projects targeting 50% green energy contribution. “We have begun negotiating energy trade agreements with Zambia, Namibia, and South Africa under the Southern African Power Pool,” she added.
In the petroleum sub-sector, Botswana currently maintains 15 days of fuel reserves, but aims to increase this to 46 days during NDP 12 and 90 days by 2030 through the Tshele Hills Project. Citizen participation in petroleum imports has risen to 30%, and alternative supply routes now account for 49% of imports, reducing reliance on South Africa.
Kenewendo noted that despite progress, challenges such as vandalism, aging infrastructure, and high import tariffs persist. “We must respond collectively to safeguard our infrastructure and ensure energy security,” she urged.
Turning to mining, the Minister said the sector will grow by 1.6% during NDP 12, driven by diversification beyond diamonds.
“We are building a mining sector that is innovative, sustainable, and inclusive,” she said. Recent achievements include commissioning of the Khoemacau and Motheo copper mines, and expanding geological mapping coverage from 45% to 82%.
Botswana’s non-diamond mineral exports are projected to reach 15% of total mineral exports by 2029/30, while employment in the sector is expected to rise from 1% to 1.7%.
Kenewendo reaffirmed government’s commitment to the De Beers–Government of Botswana agreement, which includes developing Jwaneng underground and Orapa Cut 3, alongside in-country jewelry manufacturing. She said the accreditation of Botswana as an issuer of Renewable Energy Certificates will help make local diamonds carbon neutral, unlocking green financing opportunities.
“By 2036, Botswana will be a citizen-led energy hub powering Africa building prosperity through clean energy and responsible mining,” Kenewendo concluded.
