Kenya has been awarded the hosting rights for the World Geothermal Congress 2029, marking the first time the prestigious event will be held in Africa and highlighting the country’s leadership in geothermal innovation and sustainable energy.
Kenya has officially been selected to host the 2029 World Geothermal Congress (WGC), reinforcing its status as a global leader in renewable energy and geothermal development. The International Geothermal Association (IGA) announced Nairobi as the host city, choosing it over strong contenders Auckland, New Zealand, and Munich, Germany.
Since its inception in 1995, the WGC has convened scientists, policymakers, innovators, financiers, and industry leaders from around the world, but it has never previously been held on African soil. Hosting the Congress represents a significant milestone for both Kenya and the continent, providing a global platform to showcase geothermal expertise, policy innovation, and sustainable energy initiatives.
The 2029 Congress is scheduled to take place at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Headquarters in Nairobi. It is expected to draw more than 3,000 participants, including top scientists, energy innovators, government officials, investors, and industry practitioners. The event will feature technical sessions, high-level policy discussions, and exhibitions focused on geothermal research, development, financing, and sustainability practices.
“Kenya’s successful bid to host WGC 2029 underscores our country’s leadership in geothermal energy and our growing influence in shaping the global renewable energy agenda,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Energy.
Kenya is already a recognized geothermal powerhouse in Africa, with significant installed capacity and ongoing expansion projects in the Rift Valley region. The country has invested heavily in geothermal research, innovation, and capacity building, positioning itself as a regional hub for renewable energy expertise and green financing initiatives.
The WGC will provide a unique opportunity for Kenya to highlight its achievements, attract foreign investment, and strengthen international collaborations in the renewable energy sector. Delegates will also explore opportunities to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies, improve energy access, and integrate geothermal solutions into broader climate action and development strategies.
Industry observers note that hosting the WGC will further enhance Kenya’s reputation as a preferred destination for renewable energy investments. The event is expected to stimulate the local economy through tourism, conferences, and related service industries, while also creating a platform to showcase Kenyan innovations in clean energy and climate-smart development.
“This is not just an event; it is a testament to Kenya’s dedication to sustainable energy, innovation, and climate resilience. WGC 2029 will allow us to share our experience and learn from global best practices,” said an official from the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).
The International Geothermal Association highlighted Kenya’s achievements in the sector as a key factor in selecting Nairobi. These include long-term policy frameworks supporting renewable energy, progressive financing mechanisms for geothermal development, and the country’s demonstrated technical expertise in both exploration and operational management.
Hosting the WGC also provides a platform to strengthen continental collaboration on renewable energy. African countries are increasingly turning to geothermal energy as a reliable, low-carbon source of electricity, and Kenya’s leadership could catalyze further investment and knowledge transfer across the continent.
Preparations for the Congress are expected to involve collaboration between national and county governments, industry players, academic institutions, and international partners. Beyond the three-day event, Kenya hopes to establish enduring platforms for knowledge exchange, research partnerships, and private sector engagement in geothermal and other renewable energy technologies.
With climate change, energy security, and sustainable development taking center stage globally, Kenya’s hosting of the World Geothermal Congress represents both a recognition of past achievements and an opportunity to chart the future of clean energy development in Africa.
