On November 16, 2024, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi announced the Kenyan government's commitment to achieving universal electricity access by 2030. The government has allocated Sh42 billion for electricity connections nationwide this year.
Wandayi emphasized Kenya's green growth initiative, which aims for 100% renewable energy by 2030. He noted that despite being a developing nation, Kenya has positioned itself alongside many developed countries in renewable energy investment.
Kenya recently joined the International Energy Agency (IEA) association, consisting of 13 countries, primarily developed nations, showcasing its commitment to energy transition. The IEA focuses on various energy issues, including renewable technologies and energy efficiency.
During a tree planting event in Koibatek Forest, Wandayi highlighted Kenya's participation in COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, aimed at combating global warming. He pointed out that 90% of the country's energy comes from renewable sources, with geothermal, hydropower, solar, and wind contributing significantly to the energy mix.
The Cabinet Secretary reported that Kenya has achieved 100% electricity access in urban areas and 65% in rural regions. The total energy generation capacity stands at 2,150 MW, with plans for further expansion through public-private partnerships.
Wandayi outlined ambitious goals to increase renewable energy capacity from 3 Gigawatts to 100 Gigawatts by 2050 and to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030. He stressed the importance of addressing climate change, citing a 1.2% rise in global greenhouse gas emissions from 2021 to 2022.
The Energy and Petroleum Ministry has rehabilitated 1,593 hectares of water catchment and planted 3.6 million trees, aiming for a target of 15 billion trees. Wandayi noted the significance of tree planting for water conservation, crucial for energy generation.
In response to criticisms from the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, Wandayi urged leaders, including clergy, to provide factual statements to support national development. He concluded that the country is on a positive trajectory, with decreasing living costs and a strengthening currency.
Kisii Woman Representative Dorice Donya advocated for public-private partnerships to plant fruit trees in schools, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and environmental conservation for students.