Kenya, a nation with a growing demand for energy, aims to achieve a 100 percent transition to green energy. This ambition has been significantly bolstered following the signing of a landmark five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State of Israel.
The agreement deepens the growing cooperation between the two countries, particularly in sectors driven by innovation and sustainable development.
The MoU, signed in Nairobi by Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Israeli Ambassador Michael Lotem, sets the stage for a robust partnership in the energy sector, with a sharp focus on renewable energy, technological exchange, and human capital development.
This agreement builds on existing bilateral ties where Israel has frequently supported Kenya in areas such as agriculture, water management, innovation, and security.
Under the agreement, Israel will provide Kenya with technical support, capacity building, and access to cutting-edge energy technologies.
This includes expertise in renewable power generation, specifically photovoltaic systems, concentrated solar power, and advanced battery storage, as well as grid stabilisation—key components needed to strengthen Kenya’s electricity network and ensure efficient delivery of clean energy to homes and industries.
The Israeli government has committed an initial grant to support the establishment of the Centre of Excellence and pilot projects in renewable energy.
One of the highlights of the deal is Israel’s commitment to support Kenya in reducing technical and commercial losses in its power distribution system—an area that has historically undermined energy efficiency and affordability in the country.
The MoU aims to reduce power distribution losses by a specific percentage over the next five years. Israel will also collaborate with Kenya to set up a Centre of Excellence in energy training, aimed at developing the next generation of professionals in green energy. This Centre will offer short courses, research opportunities, and potentially degree programs to eligible participants.
“This partnership marks a major step forward in our journey to fully transition to green energy. he agreement provides a framework for collaboration in areas such as solar, geothermal, biomass, energy efficiency, and the protection of critical infrastructure,” said CS Wandayi during the signing ceremony.
The partnership is expected to not only enhance energy security but also create new job opportunities in the renewable energy sector and potentially lead to more affordable electricity for Kenyan households.
Ambassador Lotem noted that Israel sees energy cooperation with Kenya as a strategic investment in the future.
“Our goal is to help Kenya not only achieve but sustain its green transition. A Centre of Excellence will ensure the skills and innovation required for this transformation are locally available,” he said.
Other areas covered under the MoU include collaboration on electric power production and transmission, biomass technologies, grid management systems, and institutional linkages with Kenyan universities and training institutions to support long-term skills development. The private sector will also be engaged in these initiatives. While the agreement holds great promise, challenges such as infrastructure development and regulatory hurdles will need to be addressed.
Looking ahead, both countries envision further collaborations and continued partnership beyond the initial five-year period.
