The initiative is supported by an €850,000 grant from the German government, channelled through the GIZ/International Climate Initiative (IKI) Small Grants programme.
The funding has enabled smallholder farmers to adopt solar-powered solutions, replacing traditional diesel-powered pumps with efficient drip irrigation systems. These improvements have significantly reduced environmental impact cutting carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 770 tonnes annually and saving around 835 litres of diesel per hectare across a 25-hectare farming area.
Speaking at an event this week, German Ambassador to Botswana, Gabriella Benneman, said the transition has also led to additional energy savings, with about 30,000 kilowatt hours of power saved through efficient lighting and heating technologies.
“We understand that NDB is currently working to secure further international climate finance. “Through this successful partnership with IKI Small Grants, the bank has strengthened its profile as a reliable and effective partner in local-level climate action,” she said.
The German government, through IKI, has long been committed to promoting climate action and biodiversity conservation. IKI Small Grants, financed by the Government of Germany and implemented by GIZ, support local actors around the world with both funding and technical assistance.
In Botswana, the NDB was selected as the IKI partner institution. NDB independently managed the entire project from planning and selection to implementation and monitoring, demonstrating full ownership and autonomy.
“This high level of ownership has proven to yield more effective and sustainable results,” the ambassador added. “Who better than NDB to lead climate-related efforts in Botswana?”
For her part, NDB CEO Ogone Madisa, said since the project's launch, the bank has empowered 54 smallholder farmers to adopt solar-powered solutions that reduce emissions and promote sustainability. She said about 45% of the projects were women-led, seven percent youth-led, and 60% of the workforce employed were young people.
“This initiative reflects NDB’s commitment to becoming the catalyst for sustainable economic development in Botswana. “We are transforming into the country’s centre for SME-driven wealth creation leading not only in words, but in action with innovative green energy solutions that change how we grow, sustain, and empower.”
She added that the project aligns directly with the bank’s Green Climate Finance Strategy.
