Kenya taps Chinese firm Chint Global in ambitious energy plan

Kenya is embarking on a significant transformation in its energy sector with a focus on expanding domestic power connections to achieve ambitious last-mile power plans. The country is aiming to enhance electricity connectivity and increase earnings from the sector by implementing smart meters to combat the issue of illegal power connections. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Amy Fan, General Manager for East and South Africa at Chint Global, shed light on the company's strategic investment in Kenya and its potential impact on the local economy. Fan emphasized the importance of Kenya as a key strategic market for Chint Global in East Africa. The company is set to inaugurate its 10th overseas factory in Nairobi, which will focus on manufacturing smart meters, including single-phase and three-phase meters. This move aligns with Chint Global's goal of becoming a leading energy solution provider in East Africa. By establishing a local factory, the company aims to contribute to better grid management and provide solutions for areas with unstable power supply. One of the key benefits of Chint Global's investment in Kenya is the creation of local employment opportunities. Fan mentioned that the factory will initially employ over 50 individuals, with plans to expand the workforce to around 100 people as new products like water meters and transformers are introduced. The company is committed to supporting the localization of production by employing over 90% local staff and increasing the localization rate for meter production to 30-40%. Moreover, Chint Global's focus on research and development (R&D) will not only drive innovation but also contribute to skills development in the region. The company is looking to establish R&D institutes in Kenya to support economic growth and enhance local capacities in the energy sector. By leveraging the ''Buy Kenya, Build Kenya'' policy, Chint Global aims to strengthen its localization strategy and promote technological advancements in the country. In line with Kenya's efforts to improve energy connectivity and access, Chint Global is collaborating with local authorities to produce tailor-made solutions like smart meters. These initiatives are essential for enhancing the efficiency of the power sector and supporting the government's plan to increase connectivity across the country. As sustainability takes center stage globally, Chint Global is committed to environmental responsibility and has integrated solar power solutions in its Nairobi factory to support green manufacturing practices in Kenya. Looking ahead, Chint Global has outlined its strategy to expand its market share in Kenya and East Africa over the next three years. The company plans to focus on producing high-quality, advanced smart meters tailored to the specific needs of the regional market. By enhancing production techniques and quality control measures, building strong partnerships with local stakeholders, and collaborating with educational institutions for R&D, Chint Global aims to solidify its presence in the region. Overall, Chint Global's investment in Kenya signifies a significant milestone in the country's energy sector, with the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and foster technological innovation. The company's commitment to sustainability and localization is a testament to its dedication to supporting Kenya's energy goals and contributing to the country's overall development.