Celebrating Excellence: Highlights from the Kenya Geothermal Congress 2024 Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony

On the evening of July 18, 2024, the Geothermal Association of Kenya (GAK) hosted a spectacular Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony to mark the conclusion of the Kenya Geothermal Congress 2024.

The event, held at Safari Park Hotel, was a glittering affair that brought together key stakeholders from the energy sector, all united by a shared commitment to advancing geothermal energy in Kenya.

The night was not only a celebration of Kenya’s significant achievements in geothermal energy but also a platform to honor the individuals and organizations that have made remarkable contributions to this critical industry.

A Night of Prestige and Celebration

The chief guest for the evening was Mr. Alex Wachira, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Energy, whose presence emphasized the government’s support for the geothermal sector.

The guest list was a veritable who’s who of the energy world, including Joy Brenda Masinde, the Chairperson of the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) Board; Eng. Peter Njenga, Managing Director and CEO of KenGen; Eng. Paul Ngugi, CEO of the Geothermal Development Company (GDC); and Hon. Walter Nyambati, Chairman of the GDC Board.

Expertly emceeing was Mr. Mike Karanja, a Manager at the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), whose dynamic presence kept the evening engaging and entertaining.

As guests arrived, they were greeted with a warm reception, enjoying a networking session filled with animated discussions about the future of geothermal energy in Kenya. The buzz in the air was palpable, reflecting the optimism and excitement surrounding Kenya’s position as a leader in geothermal energy production in Africa.

Recognizing Excellence in Geothermal Energy

The highlight of the evening was the Awards Ceremony, which recognized outstanding achievements and contributions to the geothermal sector. Awards were presented in various categories, including Individuals in Kenya Who Have in Recent Times Contributed Immensely to Accelerating Geothermal Development, and Institutions that have supported Geothermal Development in Kenya.

Each award was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of the recipients, who have all played crucial roles in driving Kenya’s geothermal industry forward.

Among the notable awardees was KenGen, recognized for its pioneering efforts in geothermal energy production. Under the leadership of Eng. Peter Njenga, KenGen has not only increased its geothermal capacity but also set a benchmark for sustainability and innovation.

The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) was also honored for its pivotal role in geothermal exploration and development, with Hon. Walter Nyambati receiving the certificate of recognition.

In his keynote speech, Mr. Alex Wachira commended the awardees and emphasized the importance of geothermal energy in Kenya’s energy mix. He further highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the sector through favorable policies and investment in infrastructure.

A Night to Remember

The launch of The History of Geothermal Energy in Kenya, a book by the Geothermal Association of Kenya was another highlight of the gala night at the Kenya Geothermal Congress 2024.

The book, a comprehensive chronicle of the country’s geothermal journey, was unveiled amid applause, symbolizing Kenya’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development. Attendees received copies as mementos.

The Gala Dinner also featured a sumptuous feast, with a menu showcasing the best of Kenyan cuisine – Nyama Choma. As the night progressed, guests enjoyed live entertainment, including performances by Safari Park Dancers that added a touch of cultural flair to the evening.

The event concluded with a toast to the future of geothermal energy in Kenya, with everyone raising their glasses to a prosperous and sustainable future.

The Kenya Geothermal Congress 2024 Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony was more than just an event; it was a celebration of Kenya’s achievements in geothermal energy and a testament to the collaborative spirit of the industry.

As the night drew to a close, there was a notable sense of pride and accomplishment among the attendees, coupled with a renewed commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in geothermal energy.

Looking Ahead

As Kenya continues to harness its geothermal potential, events like these play a crucial role in recognizing and encouraging the contributions of individuals and organizations. The future is bright for Kenya’s geothermal sector, and the Gala Dinner was a reminder of the importance of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to sustainable energy.

We look forward to more milestones, more innovations, and more celebrations in the years to come. Here’s to a future powered by geothermal energy!