Minister Kenewendo Launches Botswana’s National Energy Compact to Drive Universal Access and Renewable Growth

Minister Kenewendo Launches Botswana’s National Energy Compact to Drive Universal Access and Renewable Growth. Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Hon. Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, officially launched the Botswana National Energy Compact (M300) today at Hotel 430 — a milestone initiative designed to transform the country’s energy landscape through expanded access, affordability, and sustainability.

The Energy Compact outlines Botswana’s roadmap toward achieving full energy access and national energy security by connecting more than 220,000 new households to electricity. It also aims to accelerate the country’s shift toward clean cooking solutions and increase the share of renewable energy from 8 percent to 50 percent.

Minister Kenewendo highlighted five key strategic pillars underpinning the Compact:Last-Mile Access – ensuring no community is left behind, with over 40 identified villages and settlements set to gain electricity access.Capacity Expansion and Cost Reduction – focusing on affordability and efficiency in power generation and distribution.Regional Integration and Power Trade – leveraging the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) to strengthen cross-border energy collaboration and grid stability.Private Sector Participation – encouraging innovation and investment from local and international players to boost energy development.Financially Viable Utilities – promoting sustainable utility operations capable of delivering reliable power services.

In a major development for Botswana’s renewable energy credentials, Minister Kenewendo announced that the country has been authorised to issue International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs) — a move that positions Botswana as a credible participant in regional and global renewable energy markets.

She reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that by 2030, every citizen has access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy, creating a strong foundation for economic growth, industrial development, and entrepreneurship.