Kenya: KenGen Appoints Ronoh Kibet As Managing Director And CEO

Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has appointed Ronoh Kibet Charles as its next Managing Director and Chief Executive, as the power producer seeks to expand renewable energy capacity and diversify its business.

Kibet, currently KenGen’s General Manager for Commercial Services, will take office on February 1, 2027, succeeding Peter Waweru Njenga, who is due to retire.

The Board said in a statement that the appointment followed a competitive recruitment process.

It said the transition period would allow an orderly handover and ensure continuity in implementing the company’s strategic priorities.

Kibet has more than 17 years of professional experience spanning geothermal development, project delivery, business development and commercial strategy.

In his current role, he oversees energy markets, investments, new business and partnerships, as well as marketing, corporate communications and sustainability.

His work has included supporting renewable energy projects, expanding KenGen’s international consultancy services and advancing the Olkaria Green Energy Park, which aims to attract energy-intensive industries through access to geothermal power.

Kibet holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunication and Information Engineering and a Master’s Degree in project management, both from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.

He is a certified Project Management Professional and SAP Project System Consultant. He has also undertaken leadership and executive education programmes at Harvard Business School, IESE Business School in Spain, the University of Cape Town and Strathmore Business School.

His professional affiliations include the Engineers Board of Kenya, the Institution of Engineers of Kenya and the Geothermal Association of Kenya. He is also a recipient of the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya.

Kibet will take over as KenGen pursues investment in geothermal generation, industrial development and technical services alongside its core electricity generation business.

Geothermal power is less dependent on seasonal rainfall than hydropower, making it an important part of Kenya’s electricity supply. Its expansion requires investment in exploration, drilling, steam-field development, power plants and associated infrastructure.

KenGen is also seeking to attract industrial investment through the Olkaria Green Energy Park and generate additional revenue by providing geothermal consultancy services internationally, including in Eswatini.

The company reported a profit after tax of KSh10.48 billion for the 2025 financial year, up from KSh6.8 billion in 2024. It attributed the improvement to stronger business performance and operational efficiencies.

The board said it expected Kibet to build on these results, strengthen performance and develop the company’s workforce.

Njenga, who became managing director and chief executive in August 2023, will remain in office until his retirement and the formal handover.

The Board thanked him for his service, citing the company’s financial performance, business diversification and expansion of international geothermal consultancy services during his tenure.