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BOTSWANA
1.
2.
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GENERAL OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
ENERGY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY
ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE
ORGANIZATIONS, SOURCES, REFERENCES
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-1GENERAL 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
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1.1 BASIC FACTS & GEOGRAPHY
Location
Area
Borders
Climate
Terrain
Natural hazards
Southern Africa
581 730 km2 (97 % land, 3 % water)
West, North: Namibia (1 360 km)
North: Zambia (0,2 km)
North East: Zimbabwe (813 km)
South East, South: South Africa (1 840 km)
Semiarid (warm winters, hot summers)
Flat
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)
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1.2 PEOPLE & SOCIETY
Population, total
Population, growth
Population, density
Urban population
Rural population
Population (0-14 years)
Population (15-64 years)
Population (65 years and above)
Life expectancy at birth
Major cities(2009)
2009
2010
1,98 mil.
2,01 mil.
1%
1%
2
3/km
4/km2
60 %
61 %
40 %
39 %
40 %
39 %
33 %
33 %
63 %
63 %
53
53
Gaborone - capital (0,2 million)
Francistown (0,1 million)
2011
2,03 mil.
1%
…
62 %
38 %
…
32 %
64 %
53
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
Ethnic groups
Religion
Official: English, Setswana
Tswana/Setswana (79 %), Kalanga (11 %)
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
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1.4 INFRASTRUCTURE & LOGISTICS
Railways:
Roads:
Ports:
Waterways:
Airports:
900 km (southern region)
30 000 km (total)
Landlocked country
Okavango Delta, Makadikadi Basin
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 lowincome 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)
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1.5 GOVERNMENT & LEGISLATION
Official name
Conventional short form
Form of state
Regions and districts
Government
Legal system
Independence
Corruption perception index (2011)
Republic of Botswana
Botswana
Parliamentary republic
9 districts and 5 town councils
President: Seretse Khama Ian Khama (since April 2008)
Parliament: advisory 35-member body + 27 non-permanent
members
Major Party: Botswana Democratic Party
Mixed (Civil/Roman-Dutch model/Customary/Common)
1966 (from UK)
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
Currency
GDP (current US$) (billions)
Structure of the economy (% of GDP)
- Agriculture
- Industry
- Services
GDP growth (annual %)
GNI per capita, PPP (current intl.)
Inflation, consumer prices (annual %)
Ease of doing business ranking
Upper-Middle Income
Pula (BWP)
2009
11,54 bil.
3%
40 %
57 %
-5 %
$ 12 900
8%
38
(out of 181)
2010
14,90 bil.
2011
17,63 bil.
2%
45 %
53 %
7%
$ 13 640
7%
45
(out of 178)
2%
47 %
51 %
5%
$ 14 560
9%
52
(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)
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
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
Export of goods and services ($)
Import of goods and services ($)
Net export ($)
FDI net inflows (% of GDP)
2009
3,75 bil.
32 % of GDP
4,93 bil.
42 % of GDP
-1,19 bil.
7,14 %
2010
4,92 bil.
33 % of GDP
5,96 bil.
40 % of GDP
-1,04 bil.
1,78 %
2011
6,78 bil.
38 % of GDP
7,68 bil.
44 % of GDP
-0,90 bil.
…
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)
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
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
Primary school enrolment, % net, 2009
Higher education:
Largest universities:
84 %
87 % (88 % female, 87 % male)
Public universities
Vocational Colleges
Private Tertiary Education
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)
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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.
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-2ENERGY & 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
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2.1 GENERAL SITUATION IN ENERGY SECTOR
Total energy consumption
Energy consumption per capita
Electricity consumption
Electricity consumption per capita
Access to electricity
Access to electricity rural population
Energy imports (% of energy use)
Electricity imports (% of electricity use)
Power production capacity
Renewable power production capacity
Electricity production
Share of population using solid fuels
Fossil fuels % of total energy
2009
23,8 TWh
12,0 MWh/capita
2970 GWh
1 503 kWh/capita
45 %
44 %
54 %
87 %
217 MW
0 MW
906 GWh
40 %
64,3 %
1990
14,7 TWh
7,4 MWh/capita
990 GWh
28 %
217 MW
444 GWh
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
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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
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Source: IEA Country Energy Balance, 2009
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2.2 ENERGY POLICY
Energy policy publications
Organizations responsible for energy policies
Targets to increase use of renewable energy
Subsidies/ Incentives for Renewable Energy
The National Energy Policy in 1996, updated in
2004
The Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water
Resources
All targets under review
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
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BOTSWANA report
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
Proven oil reserves
Excellent solar energy resources
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
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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)
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BOTSWANA report
-3ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE
3.1 Description of Environmental Governance
3.2 Environmental & Social Requirements for Projects
BOTSWANA report
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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).
20 (27)
BOTSWANA report
-4ORANIZATIONS, 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.
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BOTSWANA report
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/
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BOTSWANA report
4.2 SOURCES OF INFORMATION, REFERENCES & LINKS
Botswana: De Beers moves
diamond sorting to Gaborone
BBC
Article about world's leading diamond producer in
Botswana
Business
Link
Botswana Energy Master Plan
IEA
The Botswana Energy Master Plan sets out various
goals for rural electrification involving the use of
RE
Government
Link
Published: December 2007
Environmental
Governance
National Development Plan
Government
Link
Renewable Energy in Botswana
Presentation at a workshop on
Biofuels: R&D and technologies for
sust. development in Africa
Kgathi
Vision 2016
Potential impacts of biofuel
development on food security in
BOT: Contribution to energy policy
Environmental assessment as a
planning tool for sustainable
development - The case of
Botswana
Kgathi, Mfundisi,
Mmopelwa,
Mosepele
Okavango Research Institute,
Uni. of BOT Ecotori Planners,
Gaborone Technology Park
Environmental
Governance
Link
David Aniku
Department of Environmental
Affairs
Environmental
Governance
Link
Peter Zhou
EECG Consultants
Environmental
Governance
Link
Government of Botswana
Environmental
Governance
Link
Business Association of
Employers
Business
Link
Business
Link
Economy
Link
Environmental
Governance
Link
Economy
Link
Economy
Link
Economy
Link
International Monetary Fund
Economy
Link
OECD
Economy
Link
Education
Link
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
Capacity building for the Clean
Development Mechanism (CDM)
General Guidelines For Conducting
EIA and SEA Studies Under the EIA
Act 2005
Botswana Export Development &
Investment Authority
Botswana Technology Centre
The World Conservation Union
(IUCN)
Botswana Trade Statistics
EU
Private sector led organization promoting exportoriented enterprises
BOTEC supports the national development goals
by aligning research, science and technology
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;
formulating mgmt. plans; identifying the env.
Interests and needs of the business sector
EU – Botswana trade overview
Botswana Chamber of Commerce
Botswana economy set to sparkle
after diamond deal
HE Financing in East and Southern
Africa
Robyn Curnow
Happy Siphambe
CNN
Herana Gateway
Article about diamond industry in Botswana
African higher education research
25 (27)
BOTSWANA report
The Energy and Environment
Partnership Africa
Project funding
General
Link
NGO Environment Botswana
NGO information
General
Link
Government
Link
Government
Botswana Country Specific
Information
Botswana's Infrastructure A
Continental Perspective
US Department of State
International travel information
Government
Link
Botswana Development
Corporation Limited
Government agency for commercial and industrial
development
Government
Link
World Bank
Infrastructure
Link
United Nations
Society
Link
United Nations
Society
Link
Business
Link
International Tax
Deloitte
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
Country BTI Transformation Level
BTI Group
Economy
Link
International Energy Association
General
Link
International Renewable Energy
Agency (IRENA)
General
Link
Renewable Energy Country Profiles
Taxation highlights in Botswana 2012
BTI analyzes and evaluates the quality of
democracy, a market economy and political mgmt.
in 128 developing and transition countries
National Energy Policy Strategy
Implementation Plan
Jeffrey Fabre
Gloria Magombo
AECOM International
Development
Government
Link
National Energy Policy for
Botswana
Cornelius
Mzezewa
AECOM International
Development
Government
Link
Camco working with governments
to develop feed-in-tariffs
Camco
Government
Link
National Development Plan 10
The Ministry of Finance and
Development Planning Botswana
Government
Link
Renewable Energy Botswana
Programme
Government
Link
United Nations Botswana
Society
Link
The Renewable Energy
Information Network
Business
Link
Energy Efficiency Unit of the
Energy Affairs Division
Government
Link
General
Link
Renewable energy-based rural
electrification
Open Energy Info
Philimon Dhafana
Country profile, energy maps, tools, programs,
organizations & institutions
26 (27)
BOTSWANA report
Country Energy Profile &
Information
Reegle
Renewable Energies in Africa
European Commission, Joint
Research Centre
Global Environment Facility
Clean Development Mechanism
Clean energy info portal
The GEF unites 182 countries in partnership with
intl. institutions, civil society organizations, and
the private sector to address global env. issues
United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change
General
Link
Government
Link
Environmental
Governance
Link
Environmental
Governance
Link
The Energy and Environment
Partnership Africa
Project funding
Business
Link
MBendi
Economy, Risks, Industry, Business, Energy and a
lot of other information
Business
Link
African Development Bank
(AfDB)
Contains structured and analysed information on
economic, political and social status
General
Link
Directory of Development
Organizations
Contains list of development organizations in the
country
Society
Link
United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP)
Un-political information on country's status on
environmental, social and financial situation
General
Link
Southern African Power Pool
(SAPP)
The members of SAPP have created common
power grid between their countries and a common
market for electricity. SAPP was founded in 1995
Business
Link
African Energy
Supplying solar, wind and power backup
equipment on a wholesale basis
Business
Link
Alternative Energy Africa
Information portal about alternative energy in
Africa
Business
Link
Inforse-Africa
International network for sustainable energy
Business
Link
Business
Link
Business
Link
Business
Link
Business
Link
Cleantech Knowledge Hub
Business
Link
The World Council for Renewable
Energy
Business
Link
International Network for
Sustainable Energy
Business
Link
African Wind Energy Association
Renewable Energy World
Conferences & Expo in Africa
Renewable Energy Africa
How We Made It in Africa
Insight into business in Africa
Herana Gateway
African higher education research
Education
Link
African Rural Energy Enterprise
Development
Community-based organization developing a
strategy for improved access to energy
Government
Link
African Center for Economic
Transformation
An economic policy institute supporting the longterm growth with transformation of African
economies
Government
Link
Nordic Development Fund
Project funding
Business
Link
Government
Link
Government
Link
Africa and Europe in Partnership
The Foundation for the
Development of Africa
Non-profit organization supporting sustainable
development
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BOTSWANA report
European Biomass Industry
Association
Business
Link
Global Network on Energy for
Sustainable Development
GNESD is a knowledge network facilitated by UN
Environmental Programme
Government
Link
Global Village Energy Partnership
GVEP works with local businesses in developing
countries to increase access to modern energy
Business
Link
World Resources Institute
WRI works with governments, companies, and civil
society to build solutions to urgent env. Changes
Government
Link
Economy
Link
The World Bank