BOTSWANA

1. GENERAL OPERATING ENVIRONMENT

2. ENERGY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY
3. ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE
4. ORGANIZATIONS, SOURCES, REFERENCES
BOTSWANA report 2 (27)

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GENERAL OPERATING ENVIRONMENT

1.1 Basic Facts & Geography

1.2 People & Society
1.3 Culture & Business Culture
1.4 Infrastructure & Logistics
1.5 Government & Legislation
1.6 Economy
1.7 International Trade, Botswana & Finland
1.8 Education
1.9 General Operating Environment - Summary
BOTSWANA report 3 (27)

1.1 BASIC FACTS & GEOGRAPHY

Location Southern Africa
Area 581 730 km2 (97 % land, 3 % water)
West, North: Namibia (1 360 km)
North: Zambia (0,2 km)
Borders
North East: Zimbabwe (813 km)
South East, South: South Africa (1 840 km)
Climate Semiarid (warm winters, hot summers)
Terrain Flat
Natural hazards Dry & dusty winds, droughts
Source: CIA, World Bank, OECD

 Botswana is landlocked country located in Southern Africa region and neighbouring Namibia, Zimbabwe,
South Africa and Zambia (CIA)
 Botswana was formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, it adopted its new name upon
independence in 1966 (CIA)
 Botswana has predominantly sub-tropical climate. The peak of the rains is January which seems to have
shifted to February in the recent years. About 99% of the rains occur in localized thunderstorms, which tend
to be erratic and unpredictable could be destructive in nature. The average daily maximum temperature in
summer is about 32 degrees Celsius in January while the extreme can reach about 42 degrees Celsius. The
winter is dry with peak of the winds in August. The average daily maximum temperature in winter is about
21degrees Celsius in July while the extreme can fall to less than negative 5 degrees Celsius. (MINISTRY OF
ENVIRONMENT, BOTSWANA)
 Botswana is dominated by the Kalahari Desert, which covers up to 70 % of its land surface. The Okavango
Delta, the world's largest inland delta, is in the northwest. The Limpopo River Basin, the major landform of
southern Africa, lies partly in Botswana
 Botswana is one of the world’s great development success stories. A small, landlocked country of two million
people, Botswana was one of the poorest countries in Africa with a per capita GDP of about US$70 when it
gained independence from Britain in 1966. In the nearly five decades since, Botswana has transformed itself,
moving into the ranks of upper middle-income status to become one of the fastest growing economies in the
world (WB)
BOTSWANA report 4 (27)

1.2 PEOPLE & SOCIETY

2009 2010 2011
Population, total 1,98 mil. 2,01 mil. 2,03 mil.
Population, growth 1% 1% 1%
2
Population, density 3/km 4/km2 …
Urban population 60 % 61 % 62 %
Rural population 40 % 39 % 38 %
Population (0-14 years) 40 % 39 % …
Population (15-64 years) 33 % 33 % 32 %
Population (65 years and above) 63 % 63 % 64 %
Life expectancy at birth 53 53 53
Gaborone - capital (0,2 million)
Major cities(2009)
Francistown (0,1 million)
Source: CIA, World Bank

 The total population and population density of Botswana is relatively small in comparison to other African
countries
 The population is concentrated in the eastern part of the country. The largest city in Botswana is the capital
Gaborone with population of about 200 000 (CIA)
 Life expectancy at birth was 55 in 2009. Botswana has been hit very hard by the AIDS pandemic; in 2006 it
was estimated that life expectancy at birth had dropped from 65 to 35 years. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in
Botswana was estimated at 24% for adults. Approximately one in six Batswana has HIV, giving Botswana the
second highest infection rate in the world after nearby Swaziland (UN)

1.3 CULTURE & BUSINESS CULTURE

Language Official: English, Setswana
Ethnic groups Tswana/Setswana (79 %), Kalanga (11 %)
Religion Christian (72 %), Badimo (6 %), None (20 %)
Source: CIA, OECD

 Botswana's main ethnic groups are Tswana/Setswana and Kalanga. Other groups of ethnicities in Botswana
include whites and Indians, both groups being roughly equally small in number. Botswana's Indian population
is made up of many Indian-Africans of several generations, from Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Mauritius,
and South Africa. The white population is native to Botswana or from other parts of Africa including
Zimbabwe and South Africa. The white population speaks either English or Afrikaans and makes up roughly
3% of the population. Since 2000, because of deteriorating economic conditions in Zimbabwe, the number of
Zimbabweans in Botswana has risen into the tens of thousands. Fewer than 10,000 Bushmen are still living
the traditional hunter-gatherer style of life (UN)
 The official language of Botswana is English although Setswana is widely spoken across the country
 An estimated 70% of the country's citizens identify themselves as Christians. Anglicans, Methodists, and the
United Congregational Church of Southern Africa make up the majority of Christians. Approximately 20% of
citizens espouse no religion
BOTSWANA report 5 (27)

1.4 INFRASTRUCTURE & LOGISTICS

Railways: 900 km (southern region)
Roads: 30 000 km (total)
Ports: Landlocked country
Waterways: Okavango Delta, Makadikadi Basin
Airports: Total: 76
Gaborone, Francistown, Maun, Orapa, Jwaneng
Source: CIA, WB

 Botswana made significant progress toward improving its infrastructure in recent years. Botswana has posted
a strong investment record in the road and water and sanitation sectors, and has successfully increased rural
access to power. The country’s power and water utility post some of the highest levels of operational
efficiency to be found in Africa. Botswana has also made strides in expanding mobile telephony, with the
number of cellular subscriptions exceeding the number of inhabitants for the first time in 2010 (WB)
 Botswana railways’ single main line runs along the north-south corridor and currently transports only freight.
It serves to provide access to the South Atlantic coast when connecting to the Trans-Kalahari railway (WB)
 Botswana has a strong record of road network expansion, quality, and to much lesser extent maintenance.
The quality of roads is comparable to that found in the African middle income countries and only second to
South Africa and Mauritius. 80 % of the main road network and 73 % of the rural network are in good or fair
condition. Other indicators, such as network density and road traffic, are below the typical levels for low-
income countries. The low network density is correlated to the desert geography of much of the country
rather than to a lack of connectivity (WB)
 The aircraft fleet of Air Botswana, the main airline of the country, is one of the newest on the continent. The
country is taking full advantage of its proximity to one of the most important air transport hubs in Africa:
Johannesburg. Botswana does well to provide short local and regional links to South Africa, which in turn
serves as the international gateway to the country (WB)
 Botswana has scarce water resources compared to countries occupying similar climatic zones. The most
important drainage basins are the South Interior, Limpopo, Orange, Okavango, and Zambezi basins (CIA)
BOTSWANA report 6 (27)

1.5 GOVERNMENT & LEGISLATION

Official name Republic of Botswana
Conventional short form Botswana
Form of state Parliamentary republic
Regions and districts 9 districts and 5 town councils
President: Seretse Khama Ian Khama (since April 2008)
Parliament: advisory 35-member body + 27 non-permanent
Government
members
Major Party: Botswana Democratic Party
Legal system Mixed (Civil/Roman-Dutch model/Customary/Common)
Independence 1966 (from UK)
Corruption perception index (2011) 32 (out of 183 countries)
Source: CIA, World Bank, OECD
 Botswana is one of Africa’s most politically stable countries. The ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) is
expected to continue its dominance in Botswana’s politics in the medium term. Although BDP has dominated
Botswana's politics since the country's independence from the UK in 1966, the elections are considered free
and fair (RABOBANK)
 The politics of Botswana take place in a framework of a representative democratic republic, whereby the
President of Botswana is both head of state and head of government, and of a multi-party system. Executive
power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the
Parliament of Botswana. The most recent election, its tenth, was held in 2009
 Botswana is the least corrupt country in Africa and ranks similarly close to Portugal and South Korea.
Nevertheless the country is considered to have the most secretive public institutions in Africa (TI)

1.6 ECONOMY
World bank ranking Upper-Middle Income
Currency Pula (BWP)
2009 2010 2011
GDP (current US$) (billions) 11,54 bil. 14,90 bil. 17,63 bil.
Structure of the economy (% of GDP)
- Agriculture 3% 2% 2%
- Industry 40 % 45 % 47 %
- Services 57 % 53 % 51 %
GDP growth (annual %) -5 % 7% 5%
GNI per capita, PPP (current intl.) $ 12 900 $ 13 640 $ 14 560
Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) 8% 7% 9%
38 45 52
Ease of doing business ranking
(out of 181) (out of 178) (out of 183)
Source: CIA, World Bank, OECD

 Botswana’s economy remains one of Africa’s success stories, having transformed itself from a Least
Developed Country at the time of independence in 1966 to a Middle Income Country within three decades
(AfDB)- The country remains very dependent on diamond mining, which accounts for roughly a third of GDP
and 70% of exports (RABOBANK)
BOTSWANA report 7 (27)

 As a result of the weaker global demand for and lower prices of diamonds, Botswana’s economy grew by 5%
last year, compared with a 2011 forecast of 6%. Growth is expected to further slow to 4% in 2012, which is
somewhat lower than last year’s forecast of 6% (RABOBANK)
 IMF forecasts show that Botswana’s diamond reserves will reach a peak of 31mln carats in 2017 and will
begin to decline sharply from 2020 onwards. Diamond reserves are forecast to be depleted by 2029
 The government is anticipating the depletion by diversification within the mining sector (beyond diamonds)
and towards the services sector. Within the mining sector, the government targets diversification into coal
and uranium mining (RABOBANK)
 Botswana suffers a persistently high unemployment rate. Most recent official figures are from 2009/10 and
place the unemployment rate at 17.8%. However, according to unofficial estimates it stands at 40-50%
currently (RABOBANK)
 Botswana’s tax system is considered robust and non-distortionary. The VAT currently at 12 %, is lower to that
of its comparators in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) region. Income tax rates are progressively
applied in relation to income levels ranging from 5 % to 2 5% for the high earning bracket and tax refund
mechanism does exist (AfDB)
 Botswana’s public debt has always been minimal and sustainable. The global financial crisis and the resulting
lower demand for diamonds contributed to sharp decline in government mineral revenues. This combined
with a significant rise in public spending resulted in a widened fiscal deficit to 11 % in 2009/10, leading to a
sharp rise in the Botswana’s public debt from 6.7 % of GDP in 2008/09 to 21 % in 2010/11 (AfDB)

1.7 INTERNATIONAL TRADE, BOTSWANA & FINLAND

2009 2010 2011
3,75 bil. 4,92 bil. 6,78 bil.
Export of goods and services ($)
32 % of GDP 33 % of GDP 38 % of GDP
4,93 bil. 5,96 bil. 7,68 bil.
Import of goods and services ($)
42 % of GDP 40 % of GDP 44 % of GDP
Net export ($) -1,19 bil. -1,04 bil. -0,90 bil.
FDI net inflows (% of GDP) 7,14 % 1,78 % …
Source: CIA, World Bank, OECD

 Botswana is a contracting member of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), hence goods exported and
imported to and from South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho and Swaziland enjoy free movement without payment
of customs duties and quantitative restrictions (AfDB)
 Botswana is also a member of the 15-country Southern African Development Community (SADC) and enjoys
free movement of goods under the SADC Trade Protocol on Most Favoured Nation Treatment (MFN) on
goods traded between the member states (AfDB)
 The country also belongs to the seven-country SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) group, and was
one of the four members who signed an interim EPA with the European Union (EU) in June 2009. By signing
this interim agreement, Botswana and the EU will now work towards a full EPA covering services and
investment (AfDB)
BOTSWANA report 8 (27)

 In 2011 Botswana imported mostly manufactures from EU (97 %), and exported mostly semi-manufactures
(92 %) and agricultural products & raw materials (5 %) (IMF)
 Embassy of Finland in Pretoria (South Africa) is also handling issues for Botswana, Lesotho, Mauritius and
Namibia. Current Finnish ambassador is Tiina Myllyntausta (MFAF)
 Honorary Consulate of Finland is located in Gaborone and represented by Samuel Akuna Mpuchane (MFAF)
 Botswana’s closest embassy is in Stockholm, Sweden (Botswana Government)
 BOCCIM is a Business Association of Employers representing employers in all sectors of the Botswana
economy in an advocacy capacity (BOCCIM)
 The Botswana Export Development and Investment Authority (BEDIA) is an autonomous private sector led
organization mandated by an act of parliament to encourage, promote and facilitate the establishment of
export-oriented enterprises and selected services which will result in economic diversification, rapid
economic growth and creation of sustained employment opportunities (BEDIA)
 Botswana Development Corporation Limited (BDC) was established in 1970 to be the country's main agency
for commercial and industrial development. The Government of Botswana owns 100 percent of the issued
share capital of the Corporation (BDC)

1.8 EDUCATION
Literacy rate, % of people ages 15 and above, 2009 84 %
Primary school enrolment, % net, 2009 87 % (88 % female, 87 % male)
Higher education: Public universities
Vocational Colleges
Private Tertiary Education
Largest universities: University of Botswana (Gaborone)
Botswana College of Agriculture (Gaborone)
Source: World Bank, Herana Gateway

 The main provider of tertiary education programs in the country has been the University of Botswana which
was established in 1982 from being a campus of the then University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland
(UBLS) which was discontinued as such in 1975 (UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA)
 Other major players in tertiary education in Botswana are the Colleges of Education offering diploma and
certificate courses, Institutes of Health Sciences, Botswana Accountancy College, and Botswana College of
Agriculture (HERANA GATEWAY)
 For the 18–24 age group, Botswana’s tertiary education compares unfavorably with other countries in the
region at similar levels of development (HERANA GATEWAY)
BOTSWANA report 9 (27)

1.9 GENERAL OPERATING ENVIRONMENT - SUMMARY

 Botswana is one of few countries in Africa belonging to upper-middle income group (others include e.g. South
Africa, Namibia, Seychelles).
 Botswana’s government is aware of depletion of diamond reserves, therefore is taking steps to diversify into
other sectors and supporting also renewable energy industry.

th
Looking at “Ease of doing business index”, Botswana is positioned on the 4 place in Sub-Sahara African
region. This shows country’s positive attitude towards business environment.

nd
Botswana is the least corrupted country in Africa. Together with Portugal and Taiwan it was placed 32 in the
world looking at CPI. With population just over 2 million, Botswana’s market might be viewed as insignificant.
 Botswana is a landlocked country, which (taking into account African continent) might be considered as
obstacle in international trade development.
BOTSWANA report 10 (27)

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ENERGY & RENEWABLE ENERGY

2.1 General Situation in Energy Sector

2.2 Energy Policy
2.3 Renewable Energy Resources
2.4 Supply & Demand for Energy Solutions
BOTSWANA report 11 (27)

2.1 GENERAL SITUATION IN ENERGY SECTOR

2009 1990
Total energy consumption 23,8 TWh 14,7 TWh
Energy consumption per capita 12,0 MWh/capita 7,4 MWh/capita
Electricity consumption 2970 GWh 990 GWh
Electricity consumption per capita 1 503 kWh/capita
Access to electricity 45 %
Access to electricity rural population 44 %
Energy imports (% of energy use) 54 % 28 %
Electricity imports (% of electricity use) 87 %
Power production capacity 217 MW 217 MW
Renewable power production capacity 0 MW
Electricity production 906 GWh 444 GWh
Share of population using solid fuels 40 %
Fossil fuels % of total energy 64,3 % 66 %
Sources: IEA, World Bank, IRENA, UN data)

Major sources of commercial energy in Botswana are coal and petroleum. 40 % of population use traditional solid
fuels such as fuel-wood and charcoal in residential sector for heating, light and cooking. Compared to many African
countries, having 80-90 % of population using traditional solid fuels, Botswana is relatively developed country in
Africa. Electricity generation has been dominated by an overdependence on coal as a primary source of energy.

Self-sufficiency
 In 2009 Botswana’s own power production covered only 13 % of electricity demand (small 25-year-old coal
power plant Morupule A, 4 x 33 MW). Botswana has relied on imports to meet its growing demand for
electricity. In recent years, around 80% of electricity is imported, of which 70% is from the national electric
utility of South Africa, Eskom. In 2008 its peak demand reached 500MW and is projected to be around
600MW in 2012.
 All of Botswana's refined oil needs are supplied by South Africa, except for a small supply to the western part
of the country by Namibia.
(Reegle Country Profile)

Electricity availability
 Botswana more than doubled its electrification rate between 2006 and 2008 from 22% to 50%; a remarkable
achievement. According to the National Development Plan (NDP), the target is to reach 80% national power
access and 60% rural access by 2016. Between 2004 and 2007, rural access to electricity also doubled, to
44%; which is a major improvement even though still falling short of national targets.
(Reegle Country Profile)

Electricity capacity
 Since South Africa and other neighbouring countries have faced challenges to produce enough electricity to
meet their own demand power sale commitments has been reduced for the 2008-2012 period and imports
BOTSWANA report 12 (27)

are expected to be totally discontinued by 2013. Load shedding has been occurring in Botswana since 2008.
Lack of sizeable new domestic generation capacity to substitute for rapidly declining imports, Botswana
Power Corporation (BPC) will be unable to meet the bulk of domestic electricity demand as of 2013.
 Botswana’s electricity demand was about 3660 GWh in 2008 (peak load of 500MW). Electricity demand is
projected to grow 6% per annum reaching 5300 GWh by 2017 (peak load of 850MW) and 6890 GWh by 2026
(peak load of 1130MW). Botswana will face major challenges to restructure its energy sector but there will be
huge market potential for different energy solutions
(Reegle Country Profile)
BOTSWANA report 13 (27)

Source: IEA Country Energy Balance, 2009

BOTSWANA report 14 (27)

2.2 ENERGY POLICY

Energy policy publications The National Energy Policy in 1996, updated in
2004
Organizations responsible for energy policies The Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water
Resources
Targets to increase use of renewable energy All targets under review
Subsidies/ Incentives for Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariffs for renewables

Botswana Vision 2016 (link)

 The National Development Plan 10 (2009-2016) underscores the need to achieve national “energy security”
in light of the region-wide power deficit. In addition, “self-reliance” is one of the four National Principles
outlined in Vision 2016, the country’s development roadmap
 Vision 2016 aims at 100% electrification to support the broader development goals of access to education,
health and employment opportunities for the rural and the disadvantaged population. Capital investment is
seen as the bedrock for achieving this vision. Thus, Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) in 2007 and 2008
invested 343.4 million pula ($45.4 million USD) and 17.3 million pula ($2.2 million USD) respectively in
electricity infrastructure.
 A privatization program has been put in place with the creation of Government’s Public Enterprises
Evaluation and Privatization Agency (PEEPA) although no plan currently exists for privatization of the
electricity industry.
 The National Energy Policy in 1996, which was revised and updated in 2004, is one of the main policy
documents. The Botswana Energy Master Plan (1996, reviewed 2003) is another important policy and
planning document. Botswana Energy Master Plan (link)
 National programs are in place to facilitate the sustainability of the energy sector including the Rural
Electrification Program (REP) and the Rural Collective Scheme (RCS). The government policy aims to electrify
14 villages per annum, with 101 villages having been electrified to date.
 Energy Efficiency activities have been initiated at government level since 2000. Energy conservation activity
began through the Work Improvement Team in the Energy Affairs Division.
 An on-going project, funded by DANIDA, deals with the improvement of energy efficiency in the building
sector, establishing norms for energy efficient building design. An energy audit program has been launched
for the industrial sector.
 National Energy Policy Strategy Implementation Plan 2009 (link)
 National Energy Policy for Botswana 2009 (link)

Subsidies/ Incentives for Renewable Energy

 In 2011, it was announced that Botswana will introduce renewable energy feed-in tariffs for electricity
generation in 2012. Under the scheme renewable energy suppliers will be paid for generating electricity for
the country's national grid. Independent power projects in the programme will range from tiny schemes to
5MW. All projects above this will be implemented through power purchase agreements with the state-owned
BOTSWANA report 15 (27)

Botswana Power Corporation. Renewable energy is expected to be generated from biogas and biodiesel.
Companies from Mauritius, China and South Africa have shown interest in clinching the power deals.
 Loan programs run by the Rural Industries Innovation Centre (RIIC) allow rural households to purchase PV
lighting systems. The program is currently under revision.
 Camco working with governments to develop feed in tariffs (link)

Botswana Energy Master Plan (BEMP) which emphasizes rural electrification with solar energy.
Botswana government, in collaboration with Botswana Power Corporation, has launched the Renewable
Energy-Based Rural Electrification Programme (link) for Botswana in 2005. It is aimed at improving people’s
livelihoods by easing their access to modern energy services and its affordability. The programme is financed
through Global Environmental Funds (GEF). The activities of the project are focused on introducing different
PV-based technology packages in 66 selected villages. These include solar home and centralised PV battery
charging systems, or PV mini-grid systems which can also be hybridised with wind generators. Despite the
financial support through GEF, the take-off for the programme is still considered relatively low, and concern
has been expressed that the donor may pull out. (Reegle Country Profile)

2.3 RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES

Significant renewable energy resources Excellent solar energy resources
Proven oil reserves 0 BBL
Source: OPEC

Solar energy
 Average solar radiation is excellent at 6.1 KWh/m2 per day.
 A number of PV pilot projects have been started in Botswana since 1990. The first was the Manyana PV
project which started in 1992. The Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) PV solar pilot project is
the most recent in Botswana, launching in 2003 at Kudumatse, Motlhabaneng, and Lorolwana villages. The
primary objective: access the viability and sustainability of solar technology as an alternative energy source,
especially for rural based communities. Such projects were also intended to be replicated in other parts of
the country. Despite substantial efforts by the government of Botswana and donor agencies, the use of PV
solar systems for power generation in Botswana, particularly within isolated communities, remains low.

Wind energy
 Wind energy potential in Botswana is moderate. According to average wind speed at the height of 100 meter
is 5-7 m/s. Renewable Energies in Africa (link)

Other
Biomass production resources are low due to Kalahari Desert covering large areas of Botswana. Hydro and
geothermal energy potential in Botswana is unknown. (Reegle Country Profile)
BOTSWANA report 16 (27)

2.4 SUPPLY & DEMAND FOR ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Households
 Heat for cooking and warm water
 Power for lighting, communication and electronics

Commercial and public services - including healthcare, education, administration, business

 Power, heat and cooling

Infrastructure - including water supply, sanitation, communication, waste management

 Power, heat and fuels

Traffic and transportation

 Fuels and power for vehicles

Agriculture
 fuels for vehicles
 Fertilizer
 Power and heat for processing crop

Industry
 Heat, cooling and power

Tourism - including resorts, lodges etc.

 Heat, cooling, electricity, warm water

Competition
 Government owned monopoly with vertical integration.
 Most of the electricity is supplied by Botswana Power Corporation, especially in urban areas. In the
remainder of the country diesel generators are estimated to supply over 20 MW of energy to villages, rural
schools, hospitals, police stations and prisons. In addition, the BPC controls the network of transmission and
distribution lines to transport electricity from the power station, or point of import to eventual consumers.
 In 2007, the government amended the energy supply act to facilitate the participation of independent power
producers (IPPs) in the electricity sector.
(Reegle country profile)
BOTSWANA report 17 (27)

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ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE

3.1 Description of Environmental Governance

3.2 Environmental & Social Requirements for Projects
BOTSWANA report 18 (27)

3.1 DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE

The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism has four departments: Waste management and pollution control,
Environmental Affairs, Corporate services and National museums and monuments. Energy issues are under the
Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources. The Energy Affairs Department (EAD) is responsible for the
formulation, direction and coordination of the national energy policy. The overall policy goal for the energy sector is to
provide affordable, environmentally friendly and sustainable energy services in order to promote social and economic
development. Department services include information and advice on renewable energy.

According to the African Development Bank Country Governance Profile (2009), perhaps the greatest challenge to the
continued good progress in Botswana in the area of governance is human capacity. The country has good policies,
institutions and procedures, but lacks the relevant skills. The HIV/AIDS pandemic has worsened the capacity problem.
The National Development Plan (NDP) 10 mentions an Environmental Governance Programme (p. 276) that “will
address challenges which require concerted efforts in the development of skills, capacity and institutional
arrangements.”

Sustainable environment key result area in NDP 10 covers environmental conservation and protection, environmental
policy and management, meteorological services, wildlife and forestry. Special attention is paid to the development of
rural economy. The problems faced include: the technical capacity for waste management and overexploitation of
forest and range resources. One of the goals of NDP 10 is to mainstream environment and climate change into
development processes. (NDP 10, 267.) Also climate change adaptation is brought up in NDP 10 with relation to the
vulnerability of the poorest part of population.

The Government, UNDP and UNEP are implementing the Poverty and Environment Initiative in Botswana.

3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PROJECTS

The Environmental Impact Assessment legislation came into force in 2005. The objective of the EIA Act is to provide
for the establishment and strengthening of EIA in decision-making processes, and to ensure that the environmental
implications of policies, programmes, plans and projects are evaluated before their implementation. It is mandatory
that all proponents of development projects subject their developments to the EIA process and commit to the
prevention and mitigation of negative impacts on the environment. (National Development Plan 10, 269).

Botswana government has detailed guidelines for the EIAs. The guidelines are meant to support the incorporation and
consideration of environmental issues already in the planning stage of the projects. The Department of Environmental
Affairs (DEA) is the competent authority for EIAs. DEA receives applications, determines if an EIA is required, advises
the Minister, superintends the conduct of the public participation exercise, and evaluates the adequacy of the TOR
BOTSWANA report 19 (27)

considering the issues raised, evaluates the EIA, and issues the environmental permit. (Government of Botswana, no
date).

The need for EIA is determined by a Preliminary Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS). Public participation is a part
of the EIA process. The EIA provides for the involvement of the public during different stages of the EIA process
including the scoping, conducting, reviewing, and approving EIA statements. The stakeholders involved include:

 DEA as the competent authority.

 Government Departments.
 Licensing authorities such as Land Boards, Department of Mines, etc.
 Planning authorities such as local authorities, town and city councils.
 Representatives of international organizations with interest in the proposal such as the World Conservation
Union.
 Donors and Funding organizations such as African Development Bank, CEDA, SADC.
 Local NGOS such as Kalahari conservation Society, Somareleng, Tikologo.
 Research Institutions such as BOTEC, University of Botswana, Botswana College of Agriculture.
 Various Interest Groups such as the Botswana Youth Council, Hotel and Tourism Association of Botswana
(HATAB), farmer groups.
 Community Based Organisations (CBOs).
 Traditional Institutions such as Dikgosi, Village Development Committees.
 Individual members of the community may be directly impacted by the project.
 Members of the public who, though not directly affected by the project, have a general interest in the health
of the environment.

Concerns identified with the EIA include: lack of institutional capacity to facilitate the implementation of EIA by other
sectors and to facilitate the implementation of EIAs, gaps in the EIA Act and emerging issues such the need to regulate
the conduct of consultants registered, lack of legal basis (regulations) to adequately enforce the EIA Act, and concerns
that EIA is costly and delays projects implementation. Solutions to concerns are sought, for example, by the
amendments to the EIA Act, and training and awareness raising. Also a professional body of Environmental
Assessment Practitioners will be established. (DEA 2011).
BOTSWANA report 20 (27)

-4-

ORANIZATIONS, SOURCES, REFERENCES

4.1 Organizations & Funding Possibilities

4.2 Sources of Information, References & Links
BOTSWANA report 21 (27)

4.1 ORGANIZATIONS & FUNDING POSSIBILITIES

ENERGY
Energy Affairs Division
 The role of the Energy Affairs Division is to provide policy direction on energy issues for rapid and effective
development of the Renewable Energy–Based Rural Electrification Programme, particularly in remote areas.

Energy Efficiency Unit of the Energy Affairs Division (link)

The Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources (MMEWR)

 Is responsible for formulation, direction and coordination of the national energy policy through the Energy
Affairs Division (EAD).
 There is no independent regulator. The Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources currently performs
certain regulatory functions, including licensing and ensuring compliance with quality of supply and service
standards.

The Botswana Power Corporation (BPC)

 A parastatal under MMEWR, is responsible for electricity generation and supply.

The following ministries, parastatals and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) share energy portfolio
responsibilities with MMEWR:
 The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism is responsible for forestry and environmental
conservation. Excessive harvesting of fuel-wood and high greenhouse gas emissions are some of its main
concerns.
 The Department of Forestry and Rangeland Resources and the Department of Environmental Affairs. The
Forestry Association of Botswana (FAB) engages in long-term research on fuel-wood, productivity of natural
woodlands and in the promotion and implementation of fuel-wood programmes.
 The Ministry of Works and Transport is responsible for off-grid power supply and installation. As well as the
maintenance of solar energy equipment in government institutions in rural and urban areas through its
Department of Electrical and Mechanical Services (DEMS).

The Renewable Energy Information Network - Botswana (REIBO) (link)

Botswana Power Corporation (BPC)

 Most electric power is generated thermally in installations run by the Botswana Power Corporation (BPC), a
public enterprise established in 1970.
BOTSWANA report 22 (27)

OTHER

The African Development Bank (link) and The World Bank (link)
 Active in Botswana. Energy projects supported by them include the extension of the on the Morupule Power
Station and the feasibility study for the solar energy plant. The World Bank has an office in Gaborone.

United Nations' Organizations in Botswana (link)

 UNEP does not have an office in Botswana but implements biodiversity and conservation related projects
there. UNDP Botswana has an office in Gaborone and supports programmes in: HIV / AIDS, environment
management, economic / poverty reduction and governance. Environmental work focuses on:
 Global environmental concerns and commitments integrated in national planning and policy,
 Improved awareness and understanding among decision makers and the public of linkages
between environmental sustainability and human poverty and well-being,
 Improved national capacity to negotiate and implement global benefits.

The Global Environment Facility (link)

 Major source for environmental project funding in Botswana. GEF funded projects include three projects
related to climate change, one of which is on rural electrification.

Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) (link)

 There have been also some CDM (Clean Development Mechanism) activities in Botswana and several projects
are in the pipeline. Project implementation has, however, been difficult as there is a lack of strong project
proponents in Botswana. (EECG Consultants 2011).

Energy and Environment Partnership (EEP) (link)

 The programme promotes renewable energy, energy efficiency and clean technology investments. It provides
part financing for pre-feasibility- and feasibility studies or pilot- and demonstration projects.

Botswana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (link)

 Located in Gaborone.

Work Improvement Team in the Energy Affairs Division

The Botswana Technology Centre (link)

Finland does not have an embassy in Botswana, but the nearest representation is in South Africa.
BOTSWANA report 23 (27)

NGOs in Botswana focusing on environmental issues are listed on NGO Environment Botswana webpage. The listed
NGOs are mostly conservation organisations. Few of them have any information on the Internet. Of international
NGOs, IUCN works in Botswana. Also IUCN focuses mostly on conservation and biodiversity issues. Two on-going
projects in Botswana are The Botswana CBNRM (Community based natural resources management) Support
Programme: empowering local communities and The Okavango Delta Management Plan.
http://www.envngo.co.bw/ http://www.iucnbot.bw/
 BOTSWANA report 24 (27)

4.2 SOURCES OF INFORMATION, REFERENCES & LINKS

Botswana: De Beers moves Article about world's leading diamond producer in

BBC Business Link
diamond sorting to Gaborone Botswana
The Botswana Energy Master Plan sets out various
Botswana Energy Master Plan IEA goals for rural electrification involving the use of Government Link
RE
Renewable Energy in Botswana
Presentation at a workshop on Environmental
Kgathi Published: December 2007
Biofuels: R&D and technologies for Governance
sust. development in Africa

Vision 2016 National Development Plan Government Link

Potential impacts of biofuel Kgathi, Mfundisi, Okavango Research Institute,

Environmental
development on food security in Mmopelwa, Uni. of BOT Ecotori Planners, Link
Governance
BOT: Contribution to energy policy Mosepele Gaborone Technology Park
Environmental assessment as a
planning tool for sustainable Department of Environmental Environmental
David Aniku Link
development - The case of Affairs Governance
Botswana
Capacity building for the Clean Environmental
Peter Zhou EECG Consultants Link
Development Mechanism (CDM) Governance
General Guidelines For Conducting
Environmental
EIA and SEA Studies Under the EIA Government of Botswana Link
Governance
Act 2005
Business Association of
Business Link
Employers

Botswana Export Development &
Investment Authority
Botswana Technology Centre
The World Conservation Union
(IUCN)
Private sector led organization promoting export-
Business Link
oriented enterprises
BOTEC supports the national development goals
by aligning research, science and technology
Economy Link
products and services with the Vision 2016 ideals
and the National Development Plans
The IUCN Botswana Programme has been involved
in drafting env. policies, strategies and legislation; Environmental
Link
formulating mgmt. plans; identifying the env. Governance
Interests and needs of the business sector

Botswana Trade Statistics EU EU – Botswana trade overview Economy Link

Botswana Chamber of Commerce Economy Link

Botswana economy set to sparkle

Robyn Curnow CNN Article about diamond industry in Botswana Economy Link
after diamond deal

International Monetary Fund Economy Link

OECD Economy Link

HE Financing in East and Southern

Happy Siphambe Herana Gateway African higher education research Education Link
Africa

University of Botswana Education Link

Botswana College of Agriculture Education Link

Country Profile Rabobank General Link

Botswana at a Glance World Bank General Link

Country Profile CIA General Link

 BOTSWANA report 25 (27)

The Energy and Environment

Project funding General Link
Partnership Africa

NGO Environment Botswana NGO information General Link

Government Government Link

Botswana Country Specific

US Department of State International travel information Government Link
Information

Botswana Development Government agency for commercial and industrial

Government Link
Corporation Limited development

Botswana's Infrastructure A
World Bank Infrastructure Link
Continental Perspective

United Nations Society Link

United Nations Society Link

International Tax Deloitte Taxation highlights in Botswana 2012 Business Link

Country Energy Information Developing Renewables Business Link

Doing Business World Bank Business Link

Economic Outlook AfDB, UN, OECD Economy Link

Country Risk Classification Finnvera Economy Link

Corruption Perceptions Index Transparency International Society Link

BTI analyzes and evaluates the quality of

Country BTI Transformation Level BTI Group democracy, a market economy and political mgmt. Economy Link
in 128 developing and transition countries

International Energy Association General Link

International Renewable Energy

Renewable Energy Country Profiles General Link
Agency (IRENA)

National Energy Policy Strategy Jeffrey Fabre AECOM International

Government Link
Implementation Plan Gloria Magombo Development

National Energy Policy for Cornelius AECOM International

Government Link
Botswana Mzezewa Development

Camco working with governments

Camco Government Link
to develop feed-in-tariffs

The Ministry of Finance and

National Development Plan 10 Government Link
Development Planning Botswana

Renewable energy-based rural Renewable Energy Botswana

Philimon Dhafana Government Link
electrification Programme

United Nations Botswana Society Link

The Renewable Energy

Business Link
Information Network

Energy Efficiency Unit of the

Government Link
Energy Affairs Division

Country profile, energy maps, tools, programs,

Open Energy Info General Link
organizations & institutions
 BOTSWANA report 26 (27)

Country Energy Profile &

Reegle Clean energy info portal General Link
Information

European Commission, Joint

Renewable Energies in Africa Government Link
Research Centre
The GEF unites 182 countries in partnership with
Environmental
Global Environment Facility intl. institutions, civil society organizations, and Link
Governance
the private sector to address global env. issues
United Nations Framework Environmental
Clean Development Mechanism Link
Convention on Climate Change Governance

The Energy and Environment

Project funding Business Link
Partnership Africa

Economy, Risks, Industry, Business, Energy and a

MBendi Business Link
lot of other information

African Development Bank Contains structured and analysed information on

General Link
(AfDB) economic, political and social status

Directory of Development Contains list of development organizations in the

Society Link
Organizations country

United Nations Development Un-political information on country's status on

General Link
Programme (UNDP) environmental, social and financial situation
The members of SAPP have created common
Southern African Power Pool
power grid between their countries and a common Business Link
(SAPP)
market for electricity. SAPP was founded in 1995
Supplying solar, wind and power backup
African Energy Business Link
equipment on a wholesale basis

Information portal about alternative energy in

Alternative Energy Africa Business Link
Africa

Inforse-Africa International network for sustainable energy Business Link

African Wind Energy Association Business Link

Renewable Energy World Conferences & Expo in Africa Business Link

Renewable Energy Africa Business Link

How We Made It in Africa Insight into business in Africa Business Link

Cleantech Knowledge Hub Business Link

The World Council for Renewable

Business Link
Energy

International Network for

Business Link
Sustainable Energy

Herana Gateway African higher education research Education Link

African Rural Energy Enterprise Community-based organization developing a

Government Link
Development strategy for improved access to energy
An economic policy institute supporting the long-
African Center for Economic
term growth with transformation of African Government Link
Transformation
economies

Nordic Development Fund Project funding Business Link

Africa and Europe in Partnership Government Link

The Foundation for the Non-profit organization supporting sustainable

Government Link
Development of Africa development
BOTSWANA report 27 (27)

European Biomass Industry

Business Link
Association

Global Network on Energy for GNESD is a knowledge network facilitated by UN

Government Link
Sustainable Development Environmental Programme

GVEP works with local businesses in developing

Global Village Energy Partnership Business Link
countries to increase access to modern energy

WRI works with governments, companies, and civil

World Resources Institute Government Link
society to build solutions to urgent env. Changes

The World Bank Economy Link