Zambia and Botswana Seal Energy Partnership to Boost Regional Power Security

Zambia and Botswana are set to sign a long-awaited Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will drive joint power generation and cross-border electricity trading, marking a major step toward strengthening Southern Africa’s energy security.

The agreement was formalised in Lusaka during the ongoing Energy Forum for Africa Conference, with Zambia’s Acting Minister of Energy, Elvis Nkandu, and Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, signing on behalf of their respective governments.

Under the MoU, the two countries will construct an electricity interconnector to facilitate regional power trade while also collaborating on the development of alternative energy sources beyond hydropower. The move comes as both nations seek to safeguard energy supply and sustainability in the face of climate change.

The partnership aligns with Zambia’s recently approved Energy Compact, supported by the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank, which sets out ambitious reforms to increase electricity access, cut costs, and encourage private sector participation.

Speaking at the Forum, Kenewendo highlighted that the Compact’s framework is designed to strengthen utility performance, expand access to affordable electricity, and accelerate investment in renewable energy and clean cooking solutions.

The Zambia–Botswana partnership underscores both governments’ commitment to building a resilient energy future, while reinforcing Southern Africa’s long-term energy security through deeper regional cooperation.