Kenya joins offshore wind alliance to unlock opportunities in clean, renewable energy

The announcement was made by Alex K. Wachira, the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Energy, during the 11th Our Ocean Conference (OOC11) happening in Mombasa and Kilifi counties between June 16 to 18, 2026.

According to Wachira, Kenya aims to leverage international expertise to assess and develop renewable energy resources along its coastline, aligning with its broader climate action and sustainable blue economy goals.

“Through GOWA, Kenya will benefit from global expertise, policy knowledge, investment networks, and technical cooperation that can support future assessment and development of offshore wind resources along our coastline,” noted Wachira.

Kenya’s power grid is already recognized as one of the cleanest globally, with the majority of its electricity generated from geothermal, hydro, onshore wind, and solar sources.

This was also observed by Rikke Povisen, the Director of Operations at Global Offshore Wind Alliance. In an address to delegates in Mombasa, Povisen noted that Kenya has placed itself as a leader in renewable energy and climate action.

“By joining GOWA, Kenya is opening a new chapter for offshore wind in Africa and sending a strong signal that Africa countries will play an important role in shaping the future of ocean-based renewable energy,” she added.

Povisen further noted that offshore wind remains a significant untapped resource that will be beneficial to Kenya.

“We are looking forward to unlock opportunities that responsible offshore wind can bring to communities, economies and future generations,” she stated.

The addition of offshore wind is viewed as the next frontier in achieving universal access to affordable and reliable power.

While highlighting the economic potential of the sector, the Principal Secretary emphasized that expanding into marine-based power requires rigorous environmental and social safeguards.

“Offshore wind offers more than clean electricity; it can strengthen energy security, diversify power systems, create jobs, attract investment, and support long-term economic transformation,” said Wachira.

The PS further called for sound ocean governance, marine spatial planning, strong environmental safeguards, and meaningful engagement with coastal communities to ensure that the benefits are shared equitably.