Assessing the socio-economic impact of the rural electrification programme on rural communities in Namibia
A case study in Tsumkwe area
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21541111 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Joseph Amakali (Namibia University of Science and Technology), Tafirenyika Sunde (0000-0002-9124-9383, Namibia University of Science and Technology), Godwin Kaisara (0000-0002-5684-6764, Namibia University of Science and Technology, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 42 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Pages | 119-135 |
| Publication date | 2025-01-02 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | No |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Development Southern Africa (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0376-835X • E-ISSN: 1470-3637 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/0376835x.2024.2434924 |
| OpenAlex | W4404853719 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 3 |
| References cited | 36 |
Rural electrification is critical for socio-economic development, enhancing livelihoods, education, and productivity in rural areas. The Namibian government's Rural Electrification Programme (REP) aims to improve the socio-economic status of rural communities, many of which lack electricity access. This qualitative study uses semi-structured interviews with key informants to assess the socio-economic impacts of the REP in Namibia. Thematic analysis reveals that electrification significantly boosts productivity, income generation, healthcare, and education, yet also presents unintended challenges. For example, disparities emerge as not all residents can afford electricity, exacerbating socio-economic divides. Policy gaps, resource mobilisation, and infrastructural challenges hinder REP's full potential. This study's findings highlight the need for robust policies to ensure equitable and sustainable rural development, aligning with Namibia's Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals. Further research should explore renewable energy integration and the broader impacts of rural electrification in Namibia
Agriculture · Economic growth · Economic impact analysis · Economics · Electricity · Electrification · Environmental planning · Geography · Political science · Rural area · Rural development · Rural electrification · Socioeconomics · Energy and Environment Impacts · Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems
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| Unique citing works | 3 |
|---|---|
| Citations per year | 3 |
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Citation velocity | current |
| Highly cited | No |
| Citation types | Neutral: 3 |