China-Botswana economic ties deepen as cooperation drives development

Across the vast grasslands of Jwaneng, Botswana, rows of solar panels gleam in the sunlight.

The Jwaneng solar power plant, the country's first large-scale, centralized photovoltaic facility with a capacity of 100 megawatts, was built by China Harbor Engineering Company as part of a Chinese-Botswana consortium.

The project stands as a tangible example of how Chinese investment and technological expertise are supporting Botswana's energy transition under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

In 2025, trade between China and Botswana reached $1.222 billion, up 21.3% year on year.

The two countries are now expanding collaboration in trade, investment and technology, with practical projects delivering mutual benefits and injecting fresh impetus into economic and social development.

Improving local livelihoods Chinese-invested companies have maintained steady cooperation with Botswana for years, covering areas such as infrastructure, energy and mining, bringing tangible benefits to local communities.

The Jwaneng solar power plant project officially commenced operations at the end of April 2026.

The facility is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 240,000 tonnes annually, equivalent to planting two million trees, helping to ease electricity shortages and strengthen the country's energy security.

Beyond its contribution to clean energy, the project team has recruited 20 recent electrical engineering graduates from Jwaneng Technical College for training, and created local employment opportunities in civil engineering, solar panel installation and electrical commissioning during construction.

Meanwhile, water infrastructure projects have played an important role in improving access to essential services across Botswana.

Built by Chinese companies, the Thune Dam provides water for both domestic and agricultural use, with its water resources feeding into the country's North-South Water Carrier system.

Other Chinese-supported initiatives, including water supply and sanitation projects in Maun and the Boteti region, are also strengthening local water services and improving residents' access to clean water.

New frontiers for partnership Nowadays, cooperation between China and Botswana is increasingly extending into scientific and technological innovation and emerging industries, opening up new areas for bilateral engagement.

China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) identifies achieving notable progress in high-quality development as its top priority, with an emphasis on fostering new quality productive forces.