The Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) project has announced the appointment of George Njenga as its new executive chairman, effective November 1, 2024. Njenga takes over from Mugo Kibati, who has served as chairman for a decade and played a pivotal role in establishing LTWP as a key player in Africa’s renewable energy landscape.
A New Chapter for LTWP
With over 35 years of extensive experience in the energy sector, Njenga brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to LTWP. He has been at the helm of multi-million-dollar energy projects across Africa and worked in the Middle East and Asia, specializing in oil and gas, renewable energy, and power generation.
His career highlights include serving as the CEO of EA Infrastructure Platform at A.P. Moller Capital, Chairman of Thika Power and Iberafrica Power (EA) Limited, and CEO of General Electric (GE) South Africa. Additionally, Njenga was the CEO of GE Renewable Energy Sub-Saharan Africa, where he spearheaded transformative projects in clean energy. Notably, he co-developed and chaired the 100MW Kipeto wind energy project, underlining his expertise in wind power development.
Njenga’s educational background is equally impressive. He holds a BSc. (Hon.) in Chemistry from the University of Nairobi and has advanced qualifications in energy sector strategy from Georgia Institute of Technology and Michigan Business School.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Njenga succeeds Kibati at a time when LTWP is recognized as a trailblazer in Kenya’s renewable energy sector. Kibati’s decade-long tenure saw the successful realization of Africa’s largest wind power plant and Kenya’s first power project developed under a private-public partnership (PPP) model.
Under Kibati’s leadership, LTWP became a cornerstone of Kenya’s electricity generation, contributing 12% of the national grid’s electricity supply in its first five years of operation, from 2019 to March 2024. This milestone underscores the project’s significance in advancing Kenya’s renewable energy goals and its role in addressing the nation’s energy needs sustainably.
Reflecting on his tenure, Kibati emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in LTWP’s achievements. “LTWP illustrates the power of strategic partnerships in attracting significant foreign investment and delivering social, environmental, and economic benefits to the country. Our collaboration with the National Government and key stakeholders has been essential in progressing Kenya’s renewable energy objectives and has bolstered Kenya’s economy and enhanced our global standing as a preferred investment destination,” he stated.
A Broader Impact on Kenya
Beyond its energy contributions, LTWP has had a significant socio-economic impact, particularly in Marsabit County, where it operates. The company is the largest employer in the region, with 80% of its 301 employees drawn from the local community.
LTWP’s presence in the county has not only created jobs but also fostered development by providing infrastructure, promoting environmental sustainability, and encouraging the adoption of renewable energy.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Njenga steps into the role of executive chairman at a critical juncture. While LTWP has achieved much under Kibati’s stewardship, it faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining its position as a leader in renewable energy amidst growing competition and evolving energy demands. Njenga’s extensive background in renewable energy and his leadership in projects like Kipeto position him well to navigate these challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
Looking Forward
As Njenga prepares to lead LTWP into its next phase, his appointment marks a continuation of the company’s commitment to driving Kenya’s renewable energy agenda. With his expertise and vision, LTWP is poised to build on its successes and further its mission of delivering clean, reliable, and sustainable energy to Kenya and beyond.
Njenga’s leadership is expected to solidify LTWP’s reputation as a pioneer in renewable energy, ensuring that the project continues to play a transformative role in Kenya’s energy sector and its broader economic development.
