Paving the way for low-cost renewable energy in Kenya

Hewani Energy joined His Excellency the President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces, Dr. William Samoei Ruto, for the Issuance of 10,807 title deeds in New Kaire Adjudication Section in Athwana Ward, Tigania West Sub County in Meru County.

Since 2019, Hewani Energy and Meru County Government, through the Meru County Investment and Development Corporation, have, in collaboration with the Department of Land Adjudication and Settlement, National Government Administration Office and the Athwana Community, supported the finalization of the adjudication process.

A total of 10,807 landowners who received title deeds now enjoy clear and secure ownership of their parcels of land. They can conduct searches and carry out various land transactions, including obtaining building permits to boost their economic well-being.

Fridah Kailui, one of the recipients and a landowner, said, “We are very happy to receive the title deeds for our lands today. Without this crucial document, we have owned and farmed these lands for many years, which has hindered tangible development. Now, we are hopeful that these titles will unlock many opportunities for our community, including the project by Hewani Energy, which we believe will bring transformative change to the area.”

The title deeds will facilitate the final process of land securement through the registration of leases and easements with the 2500 landowners of Meru County Energy Park and set the stage for the construction of Africa’s first hybrid wind, solar, and battery storage renewable energy project, the 220MW Meru County Energy Park. This project is expected to create approximately 500 casual and semi-skilled jobs during the construction phase, and 50 permanent jobs during the operational stage, while providing low-cost renewable energy to the people of Kenya.

“This is a historic moment for landowners in Athwana Meru County, marking the culmination of a process that began in 2009. By supporting the issuance and handover of title deeds, we encourage investment and development in our communities. Our participation here exemplifies our commitment to community development and collaboration with the Government.”

The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including HE Isaac Mutuma – Governor of Meru County, Hon Kathuri Murungi – Senator of Meru County, Hon Elizabeth Karambu Kailemia – Meru County Woman Representative, Hon. John Kanyuithia Mutunga – MP Tigania West, AMB. Dennis Awori, Country Delegate, CFAO – H.E. Mr. Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu – High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to Kenya, and Mr. Peter Venn – Chief Executive Officer, Hewani Energy.