The Japanese International Corporation Agency (JICA) has promised to support the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) through capacity building programs, in a bid to accelerate geothermal development in the region. This is in line with GDC's mandate, one of which is to develop human capacity for geothermal development.
The JICA's Director-General, Infrastructure Management, Hon. Tanaka Hiroo, made the remarks during the Kickoff Ceremony for the JICA Phase II Capacity Strengthening for Geothermal Steam Supply and Management. The meeting was held on Wednesday 25, 2022, at Polo Centre, Nakuru.
The JICA Project aims at enhancing resource evaluation and management for sustainable steam supply for power generation. The Project will run for three (3) years.
JICA will give support in conducting interference and tracer tests for the re-evaluation of geothermal resources in Menengai and for optimizing the steam supply project, and also for reviewing and updating the development plans in Menengai West, Paka, Korosi, Suswa, and other geothermal fields. This project will contribute to the achievement of SDGs Goals 7 and 13.
"We want to appreciate the level of cooperation that has existed between JICA and GDC over the years and commit to continue our support for capacity-building as we look to grow the geothermal development in Kenya," said Hon. Hiroo.
On his part, GDC MD & CEO Eng. Jared O. Othieno, in a speech read by Mr. John Lagat, the Regional Manager North Rift, expressed gratitude to JICA for the continued interest in supporting GDC. He noted that JICA's support had greatly improved GDC business as a result of enhanced capacity amongst its staff.
The JICA special envoy was flanked by Mihara Asahiko, a special advisor. The team later visited Menengai Geothermal Project to assess the progress made by GDC.
