President William Ruto announced on Wednesday, February 28, that Kenya had reached an agreement with two Eastern African countries on the integration of electricity markets.
According to Ruto, the government is collaborating with Tanzania and Ethiopia to improve the reliability of electricity supply, thereby lowering its cost.
The head of state further highlighted that the agreement aimed to expand the distribution of clean regional energy.
This initiative is part of efforts to enhance trade between member countries, reduce environmental pollution, and strengthen climate resilience.
President Ruto announced the new power supply deal during a visit to the Suswa Substation in Kajiado County, where he was accompanied by Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Mohamed.
“The substation facilitates cross-border transfer of electricity between Kenya and Ethiopia. It will soon serve Tanzania through the 400kV Isinya Substation,” Ruto stated.
During Abiy Ahmed's tour in the country, the duo also deliberated on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest and concern.
Ruto's announcement comes a day after Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir hosted the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) Steering Committee, where representatives from member countries reiterated their commitment to advancing regional cooperation in the energy sector.
The discussions focused on collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing the capacity and resilience of the Eastern Africa Power Pool.
According to the CS, Kenya is already importing 200MW of renewable energy from Ethiopia and engaging in energy exchange with Uganda.
"This scenario calls for regional partnerships to address the dynamic energy landscape in Africa for the benefit of our citizens," Chirchir stated.
"This week's deliberations therefore mark a significant step towards enhancing energy security, promoting renewable resources, and driving economic development across our diverse nations," he added.
