Jindal Africa has commenced the construction of the Jindal Capricorn Road, a 26-kilometer, P300 million strategic infrastructure project linking the Tropic of Capricorn to the Jindal Mmamabula 600MW Energy Project.
Assistant Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Hon Keoagile Atamelang, during the groundbreaking ceremony yesterday, touted the project as a game-changer for connectivity, community upliftment, and national energy development.
“The 26-kilometer road being constructed by Jindal will transform from a basic gravel road to a modern tarred road—built to Botswana specifications with durability and safety at its core. Importantly, this road is more than just infrastructure,” declared the minister.
Atamelang said the 600 MW Jindal project is crucial as “it will strengthen Botswana’s national grid and position Botswana as a regional energy player. The 30-year power purchase agreement with BPC ensures long-term energy security.”He also made note that citizen-owned companies are engaged in the construction of Jindal Capricorn Road.
Jindal Africa CEO Parshant Goyal shared, “We see Botswana not only as a strategic partner but as a country with the stability, talent, and ambition to lead the Southern African region into a new energy era.”
Goyal expressed that Jindal Africa is a builder of legacies. He emphasized, “We believe that meaningful development goes hand in hand with empowering people. That is why we are committed to local procurement, skills development, and inclusive growth.”
The project is forecast to reach completion in 11 months. Jindal Energy Botswana Country Director and Project Head Neeraj Saxena highlighted the importance of balancing industrial development with environmental responsibility.
“While coal remains a vital resource for economic development and energy security, we recognize the global shift toward renewables. Our long-term strategy aligns with Botswana’s just energy transition ambitions, and we are committed to being part of that conversation and solution.” He said.
Jindal Africa has so far invested over P1.7 billion, with P600 million directly benefiting citizen-owned businesses. Furthermore, over 600 jobs have been created, with an estimation of the numbers growing to 1,500 jobs.
Bashi Kikia/The Projects
