By Aoma Keziah,
Kenyan professionals have been urged to strengthen their expertise in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements to address the persistent power supply challenges across the country. Experts in Infrastructure development and Public Private Partnerships, noted that closer collaboration with private financiers and enhanced technical training are critical to stabilizing electric power supply in under-supplied counties such as Migori, Homa Bay, Kakamega, Kisumu, Kisii, Nyamira, Siaya, Kericho, Busia, Bungoma, and Nyandarua.
In a recent workshop organized by the BCDIP (Building Capacity for Development and Infrastructure Professionals) they emphasized the need to build local capacity to manage PPP-funded infrastructure projects.
“BCDIP is empowering Africa’s professionals so that Africa’s infrastructure is built through intensive programs in Public-Private Partnership, soft skills training, construction courses, and international certification programs.” Stated Ms. Rose Kananu, Director of BCDIP.
In their discussion, Participants in the workshop including engineers, project managers, and other key stakeholders involved in Kenya’s power and infrastructure development, noted that Kenya has made significant strides in leveraging PPPs to develop critical infrastructure.
Notable projects including Nairobi Expressway: A key transport corridor, Turkana Wind Power: Contributing to renewable energy generation and Sosian Power: Enhancing electricity capacity in the region, stating that these projects have not only improved infrastructure but also created jobs for engineers, architects, planners, lawyers, and other professionals.
They futher noted the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO), responsible for high-voltage electricity transmission, has made considerable progress since its inception. Through concessional loans and grants from international financiers such as the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), JICA, and others, KETRACO has built a national high-voltage transmission network spanning over 9,385.5 kilometers.
In their discussion, Completed projects include 46 new substations with a combined 6,555MVA capacity. However, to address power deficits and eliminate blackouts, KETRACO’s 20-year plan requires the expansion of the network by an additional 8,948 kilometers and a transformation capacity of 15,261MVA.
Additionally, upcoming Transmission Projects, several high-voltage transmission projects are set to begin soon, including: Mariakani-Dongo Kundu Line (JICA-funded), Narok-Bomet and Kabarnet-Rumuruti Lines (AfDB and Korea-funded), STATCOMS at Rabai and Suswa (World Bank-funded), Kimuka 400kV Substation** (World Bank-funded), Marsabit-Isiolo and Loiyangalani and Marsabit Lines(China Exim Bank-funded). All these projects are expected to bridge Kenya’s infrastructure financing deficit and stabilize electricity supply across the country.
Experts at the workshop underscored that the success of these projects depends on skilled professionals capable of navigating the complexities of PPP arrangements. Enhancing training programs in soft skills, project management, and technical expertise will ensure that Kenya’s professionals are equipped to meet the demands of the growing infrastructure sector.
They concluded the workshop saying that through initiatives like BCDIP, Kenya is positioning itself to achieve a more reliable power supply and sustainable development.
Similar Posts by Aoma Keziah:
- CitizenGO Presses Government to Explain Kenya’s UN Vote on Controversial Mandate
- Gachagua Leaves For US Amid Threats And Intimidation By Authorities
- FIDA Condemns Police Brutality, Demands Answers for Children Killed in Protests
- Hundreds of Students Gather in Nairobi to Address Food Insecurity and Climate Change
- Matatu Union Appeals for Calm Ahead of Saba Saba Protests
