Kenya has successfully obtained a $75.91 million (Ksh11.4 billion) grant from the European Union (EU) to enhance investments in green energy transition, promote environmental sustainability, and expand digital inclusion projects.
The money is also to go into good governance as well as support peace and stability programmes, a dispatch from the country’s Deputy President’s Office said.
In a deal signed by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen in Brussels, Belgium, on Wednesday, the funds will go towards boosting programmes in the identified key sectors of the economy.
At the Global Gateway Summit in Brussels hosted by the EU, Gachagua, representing President William Ruto, embraced the partnership between Kenya and the EU, highlighting that the grant would contribute to the country’s development and enhance the well-being of its citizens.
Kenya welcomes this statement of signature, which will be realised through the outlined priorities for the multi-annual indicative programme 2021-2027.
“This collaboration marks a pivotal stride towards a brighter future for the Kenyan people. As we implement the Global Gateway, we are confident that sustainable development, security, and prosperity will rightfully take centre stage in our development cooperation narrative going forward,” he said of the deal signed on the sidelines of the Global Gateway Forum 2023.
Gachagua added that Kenya looked forward to a continued partnership with the EU. The Ruto administration was keen on strengthening existing ties with the EU.
“I reaffirm our collective dedication to this partnership. Together, we stride towards a future where the bonds between Kenya and the European Union continue to flourish, bringing about positive change and shared prosperity,” he said.
The EU has been a vocal supporter of green transitions across the world. In September, Kenya and the EU signed a Ksh1.9 billion ($13 million) programme worth of grants for investment in Kenya’s green hydrogen industry.
“Kenya’s ambitious target of 100 percent clean energy by 2030 is an inspiration to other countries. The green hydrogen roadmap will help Kenya achieve this goal. It will help reduce emissions, support a strategic industry for the country’s future, and boost its export capacity to partners like the EU,” Ms. Leyen said at the time in Kenya, on the sidelines of the Africa Climate Summit.
In September, Kenya unveiled a green hydrogen energy development roadmap aimed at fostering the growth of domestic markets, facilitating exports, and establishing specific goals for reducing emissions, generating employment opportunities, and attracting direct investment by 2032.
