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Shumba Energy Coal Project

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

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The Shumba Energy coal project, spearheaded by the Sechaba and Morupule South assets, is a transformative initiative aimed at unlocking Botswana’s immense thermal coal potential. Botswana sits on some of the world's largest unexploited coal reserves, and Shumba Energy’s strategy focuses on a mine-to-mouth power generation model to provide reliable base-load electricity. This approach integrates coal extraction directly with onsite thermal power plants, ensuring high thermal efficiency and reduced logistical overheads. The project is strategically positioned to address the acute energy deficit in Southern Africa, targeting power purchase agreements with neighboring utilities within the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP). Beyond electricity, the project explores coal-to-liquids and coal-to-gas technologies, which could revolutionize Botswana’s fuel security. Infrastructure development is a key byproduct, with plans for expanded rail links to facilitate regional exports. Economically, the project is a major catalyst for the Palapye region, creating thousands of jobs and fostering a cluster of industrial services. Despite global shifts toward renewables, the exploitation of these coal resources is viewed as a necessary bridge for Botswana’s industrial growth and regional economic integration.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	25	24	21	18	15	15	18	22	25	26	26
Rain mm	96	83	61	30	7	21	2	1	13	41	72	97

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Shumba Energy Coal Project in Botswana is an energy development project that aims to utilize the country's vast coal reserves for power generation. It seeks to strengthen regional energy supply and diversify Botswana's economy through coal exports.

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Visiting

The project is still in development phase, so sites are often not open to visitors. However, the surrounding landscape and coal deposits can be viewed from a distance from main roads.

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Where to view it

Good views of the project region are offered by the roads that cross the coal fields, especially near Palapye. From elevated spots, one can see the open-pit mines and extraction equipment.

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Local products

In the region, coal is mainly mined, either used for power generation in local plants or for export. Agricultural products such as cattle and grain are also typical in the area.

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Active season

Activity at the coal project is high throughout the year, with production adjusted to the demand of power plants and export markets. Dry seasons (May to October) are more favorable for mining as less rain hinders operations.

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Nearby

A visit to the project can be combined with a safari in Makgadikgadi Salt Pans National Park or the Okavango Delta. The town of Palapye also gives accommodation and local markets.

Geography

Coordinates

-22.40000, 27.20000

Facts

Large-scale coal-to-power project in the Central District
Estimated resource of 1 billion tonnes at Sechaba project
Targeting power supply for the SADC region energy deficit
Emphasis on localized value addition and job creation
Strategic alignment with Botswana's National Energy Policy
Planned integration with regional rail export corridors

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Toutswemogala Hill15 km · EExplore →

Palapye Glass Manufacturing Plant17 km · SWExplore →

Morupule Coal Mine20 km · SWExplore →

Morupule Power Station23 km · SWExplore →

London Missionary Society Ruins26 km · WExplore →

Moremi Gorge36 km · NWExplore →

Matloutse River45 km · SEExplore →

Serowe Rhino Sanctuary50 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Shumba coal project about?

It is an industrial project for developing coal deposits for energy generation.

Is the project accessible to the public?

No, it is an industrial site that is closed to tourists for safety reasons.

Why is the project economically significant?

It aims to strengthen the country's energy supply through national resources.

What is the main goal of coal extraction?

Providing fuel for national electricity generation to meet increasing demand.

Are there ecological regulations?

Yes, the project must meet strict environmental regulations for mining and rehabilitation.

Shumba Energy Coal Project: where is it located?

Shumba Energy Coal Project is located in Botswana.

Shumba Energy Coal Project: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.

Shumba Energy Coal Project: why is it worth visiting?

The Shumba Energy coal project, spearheaded by the Sechaba and Morupule South assets, is a transformative initiative aimed at unlocking Botswana’s immense thermal coal potential.

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