The French Development Agency (AFD) has signed a cooperation pact with Kenya to accelerate the development of geothermal energy across the East Africa region.
The agreement, with the Kenyan Ministry of Energy and Oil, will also target Uganda and Tanzania, as well as Kenya, which holds a reputation as a long-term pioneer in Africa’s geothermal sector.
“France, a historical and leading bilateral partner in Kenya's energy transition, is committed to enhancing the country’s world-class geothermal expertise and contributing to its vision of a 100% renewable energy mix and universal access to energy by 2030,” said H.E. Arnaud Suquet, the French ambassador to Kenya.
The agreement combines Kenya's expertise in the production of deep geothermal electricity with French know-how in direct applications of geothermal heat, AFD said in a statement.
It hopes the initiative will unleash the vast geothermal potential of the region, particularly in Tanzania and Uganda, before expanding to other countries.
It will also help strengthen climate resilience, stimulate green growth and promote sustainable development, the AFD statement added.
“AFD is committed to Kenya to achieve concrete results: resilient communities and a greener and more sustainable energy future,” said Kassab.
The agreement deepens France’s involvement in the promotion of renewable energy in Kenya, and geothermal in particular, but could lead to further opportunities across the region.
“This agreement will strengthen regional cooperation to accelerate the use of geothermal energy, thus stimulating sustainable and resilient economic growth,” said Kenya’s Alex Wachira, Senior Secretary of the Department of State for Energy.