Africa50 and Power Grid Corporation of India Limited have finalized a major infrastructure agreement. The entities signed a public-private partnership (PPP) deal valued at $311 million with the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO). This collaboration aims to develop and operate essential transmission lines within Kenya.
The project focuses on the delivery of the 400kV Lessos–Loosuk line and the 220kV Kisumu–Musaga line. These developments are identified as top priorities within Kenya’s Transmission Masterplan. The primary objective is to fortify the national grid and ensure a reliable power supply for the western region of the country.
Proponents of the deal assert that benefits extend beyond capacity expansion. The project intends to create jobs and cultivate local technical skills. Additionally, the infrastructure is expected to support the integration of renewable energy sources and drive broader economic growth in the area.
Africa50 identifies this initiative as the first PPP model of its kind for transmission in Africa. They view this project as the initial step in a larger investment strategy. The goal is to align public and private capital to transform power transmission infrastructure across the continent.
A Public-Private Partnership involves a contract between a government authority and a private party. KETRACO is a state-owned corporation mandated to plan, design, build, and maintain Kenya’s high-voltage electricity transmission grid. Africa50 serves as an infrastructure investment platform involving African governments and the African Development Bank.
