KenGen Signs Landmark Partnerships with Nestlé Kenya and GGGI to Advance Clean Energy and Sustainability. 

By Fride Amiani 

Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has entered into two landmark cooperation agreements with Nestlé Kenya Limited and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), marking a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards clean energy and sustainable development. The agreements, signed on Wednesday in Naivasha, underscore the growing role of partnerships between the private sector, government, and global institutions in driving Africa’s green growth agenda.

The signing ceremony brought together corporate leaders, energy experts, and development partners. In his keynote remarks, KenGen’s Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga, described the occasion as a historic moment that showcases the power of collaboration. “This synergy speaks volumes about the kind of future we are building: greener, healthier, and sustainable for generations to come. In Kenya, we call this Good to Great,” he said, emphasizing that the cooperation will accelerate Kenya’s journey toward a carbon-neutral future.

KenGen, East Africa’s largest power producer, plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s energy landscape with an installed capacity of 1,786 megawatts, of which nearly 90 percent is sourced from renewable energy geothermal, hydro, wind, and increasingly solar. Njenga noted that the company’s goal is not only to power homes and industries but also to safeguard tomorrow while energizing today. He stressed that partnerships such as the ones celebrated during the event are timely because they allow the company to spark innovation, refresh conversations, and scale up climate action.

The partnerships come as KenGen prepares to host the second edition of the KenGen Sustainable Energy Conference from September 17 to 19, 2025, at the Olkaria Geothermal Spa in Naivasha. Organized under the blessings of the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, the conference is expected to bring together more than 500 participants, including government leaders, financiers, investors, and development partners. This year’s theme, “Renewable Energy for Sustainable Development,” reflects Kenya’s ambition to lead Africa’s energy transition and foster global collaboration in addressing climate change.

Nestlé Kenya has been unveiled as the Official Refreshment Partner for the conference, while the Global Green Growth Institute will serve as the Official Knowledge Partner. According to Njenga, these roles are symbolic of the holistic approach needed for sustainability one that balances corporate responsibility, innovation, and knowledge exchange. He affirmed that with Nestlé and GGGI on board, this year’s conference will deliver impactful discussions and knowledge exchange experiences as the continent charts a sustainable energy future.

Nestlé Kenya’s involvement reflects its longstanding commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Speaking at the event, KenGen praised Nestlé for its global leadership in reducing carbon emissions, promoting circular packaging solutions, and empowering communities. 

“Beyond refreshments, Nestlé’s commitment to sustainability, responsible sourcing, and healthier living resonates with the conference’s mission of shaping a greener, more resilient future,” Njenga said. 

He added that Nestlé’s participation goes beyond its products, symbolizing how private corporations can fuel innovation and support climate action. Citing Nelson Mandela, he reminded delegates that 

“it always seems impossible until it is done. With Nestlé by our side, we are proving that a carbon-neutral and sustainable future is not just an aspiration it is possible.”

The Global Green Growth Institute’s role as Knowledge Partner is equally significant. Founded to support countries in their transition to green growth, GGGI will bring global expertise, financing solutions, and policy guidance to the discussions. Njenga highlighted that GGGI’s role will elevate the conference from a three-day event to a long-term launchpad for commitments and investments.

 “As our official Knowledge Partner, GGGI will bring the world to our table infusing discussions with global best practices and climate-smart policies. This will help shape Kenya’s renewable energy story as an inspiration not only for Africa but also for the world.” 

He further noted that the combination of Nestlé’s corporate leadership and GGGI’s technical expertise demonstrates how diverse contributions can align toward a shared goal of sustainability.

The cooperation agreements also highlight a broader message: sustainability is not the responsibility of one actor but a collective endeavor. On behalf of KenGen, Njenga expressed gratitude to Nestlé Kenya’s Managing Director, Mr. Khaled Ramadan, and GGGI’s Africa Strategy and Partnership Manager, Ms. Nagnouma Koné, for their commitment. 

“Together, we are proving that sustainability is everyone’s business. Together, we are also showing that when the private sector, public sector, and knowledge institutions unite, real progress becomes unstoppable,” he said.

The partnerships will not only enhance the upcoming conference but also strengthen Kenya’s role as a continental leader in renewable energy, paving the way for increased investments, knowledge sharing, and regional cooperation. Kenya has consistently ranked among Africa’s leaders in renewable energy adoption, with policies that encourage clean energy investments and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

KenGen’s geothermal projects at Olkaria and its ongoing exploration of solar and wind potential demonstrate the country’s ambitious roadmap towards 100 percent clean energy. Experts note that collaborations like the ones signed with Nestlé and GGGI are essential to sustaining this momentum because they provide the technical, financial, and corporate support needed to turn aspirations into action.

As the world grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, Kenya’s model of green growth stands out as a beacon of hope. Through KenGen’s leadership, reinforced by strategic partnerships with global and corporate players, the country is not only lighting up homes and industries but also inspiring a sustainable future for Africa and beyond. In his closing remarks, Eng. Njenga reaffirmed KenGen’s dedication to championing clean energy and green growth. 

“These two cooperation agreements are not just documents; they are our commitment, a spark, and a promise that Kenya’s green growth story will inspire Africa, and indeed the world,” he said.