GABORONE, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- Botswanan President Duma Boko called on countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to ramp up the region's energy production and pursue a sustainable energy future.
Addressing the opening of the SADC Sustainable Energy Week on Monday in the capital of Botswana, Boko said collective efforts were needed to implement energy supply strategies.
"No single country can do this alone," said Boko, adding that a sustainable energy future requires deep cooperation across borders.
"By developing regional energy projects, harmonizing our policies and sharing best practices, we can maximize the benefits of our collective resources," said Boko.
Countries across the region face challenges related to energy poverty, leaving millions without access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and communication, the president said.
There is a need to improve and accelerate the region's capacity for generating and distributing energy in its various forms with a leaning toward renewable energy, he noted.
Under the theme of "Accelerating Sustainable Energy Solutions for an Energy Secure SADC Region," the SADC Sustainable Energy Week runs through Friday. ■
