Kapenguria: Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with West Pokot County and supporting the local communities around the Turkwel Power Plant. Speaking during a press briefing at Governor Simon Kachapin's county residence in Kapenguria, KenGen Managing Director and CEO Eng. Peter Njenga noted that the company is keen on reviving and scaling up its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts in the region following a high-level courtesy call between KenGen and the county leadership.
According to Kenya News Agency, Eng. Njenga stated that as the largest electricity generator in Kenya, with a total capacity of about 1,786 megawatts from hydro, geothermal, wind, and thermal sources, KenGen believes in engaging communities where they operate. He highlighted that the Turkwel power plant, commissioned in 1991, contributes 106 MW to the national grid.
Njenga emphasized that their visit was aimed at fostering stronger collaboration with the county government to ensure that communities around the power plant benefit from the presence of the national utility. He detailed the company's CSR initiatives, which include providing scholarships, improving roads, supporting water projects, and engaging in community development programs.
He further acknowledged the roles of other key stakeholders in the electricity sector such as Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), KETRACO, and Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), highlighting the importance of working together to enhance rural electrification.
On employment, Eng. Njenga clarified that while KenGen is a national company, with 70 percent owned by the government and 30 percent by private investors, local communities are prioritized for lower cadre positions such as drivers, security personnel, and cleaners. He stated that recruitment is based on company need and merit.
Njenga also lauded the improved security in the region, crediting the efforts of the county security team, including the establishment of GSU and Administration Police camps. He mentioned that KenGen is considering relocating its offices back to Turkwel from Kitale, where they had been moved due to past insecurity.
Governor Simon Kachapin expressed gratitude to KenGen for their visit and for opening dialogue on how the Turkwel dam could better benefit the local population. He highlighted that the discussion focused on key areas such as employment, water supply, power connectivity, and the revival of social amenities.
The governor emphasized the importance of relocating KenGen offices back to West Pokot, stating that the improved security situation now allows for safe operations within the county. He also noted that both parties have agreed on reviving stalled community projects, including road improvements, school support, healthcare access, fumigation, and scholarships.
Governor Kachapin concluded that the meeting ended with a commitment from both sides to foster a sustainable working relationship that supports the local communities and enhances the impact of the Turkwel Power Plant.