Kenya unveils hydrogen strategy backed by EU’s global gateway initiative

Kenya has announced a green hydrogen roadmap aimed at enhancing food security and reducing its dependence on imported fertilizers. The plan, unveiled by the Kenyan energy ministry, outlines targets and actions to be taken until 2032. In the initial phase, Kenya intends to have the first commercial-scale green hydrogen projects operational by 2027, accompanied by 100 MW of installed electrolyser capacity. This capacity could enable the production of 100,000 tons of nitrogen fertilizers annually, replacing approximately 20% of Kenya’s current fertilizer imports.

The ministry also intends to replace all methanol imports, about 5,000 tons per year, with domestically produced green alternatives by 2027. Renewable hydrogen can be used to produce synthetic methanol, known as e-methanol. The second phase of the roadmap, spanning from 2028 to 2032, targets between 150 MW and 250 MW of installed electrolyser capacity, with the aim of increasing domestic fertilizer production to as much as 400,000 tons per year. Throughout this period, the country will explore opportunities for exporting green fertilizers within the region.

Kenya’s President, William Ruto, emphasized that a green hydrogen economy would help decarbonize the nation’s industrial activities and enhance food security, including the expansion of green production for various agricultural products such as tea, coffee, horticulture, floriculture, and grains.

During the second phase of the roadmap, production of green shipping fuels is planned to commence, alongside pilot projects that utilize hydrogen in other sectors such as power and transport. To support this ambitious plan, the Kenyan government is actively seeking international financial support, with backing from the European Union’s Global Gateway international investment scheme, which will provide nearly €12 million in grants. Germany is also offering a €60 million loan to support green fertilizer production, and the European Investment Bank is collaborating with Kenya on its green hydrogen initiatives.

However, to meet the production targets, the ministry acknowledges that more engagement from international financial institutions will be necessary. The government anticipates over $1 billion in direct investment in green hydrogen by 2032 and emphasizes that blended financing and innovative financial instruments will be crucial to enable growth in the industry.

Kenya is making strides in renewable energy and sustainability, with a goal to have 100% of its electricity supplied from renewable sources by 2030, leveraging its abundant geothermal generation capacity and now aiming to expand its role in the green hydrogen sector.

Elevate your business with QU4TRO PRO!

Gain access to comprehensive analysis, in-depth reports and market trends.

Interested in learning more?

Sign up for Top Insights Today

Top Insights Today delivers the latest insights straight to your inbox.

You will get daily industry insights on

Oil & Gas, Rare Earths & Commodities, Mining & Metals, EVs & Battery Technology, ESG & Renewable Energy, AI & Semiconductors, Aerospace & Defense, Sanctions & Regulation, Business & Politics.

By clicking subscribe you agree to our privacy and cookie policy and terms and conditions of use.

Read more insights

Britain, Japan, Italy enter treaty for joint development of next-gen fighter jet

Britain, Japan, and Italy have formally entered into an international treaty to establish a collaborative program focused on developing an advanced fighter jet, as announced by the defense ministers of the three nations on Thursday. This agreement, which was previously reported…

South Korea’s LGES and India’s JSW Energy to invest $1.5 billion in advanced battery plant

The proposed joint venture between South Korea’s LG Energy Solution (LGES) and India’s JSW Energy represents a major step forward for India’s electric vehicle (EV) and renewable energy industries. With an estimated investment of over $1.5 billion, the partnership aims to establish a battery manufacturing facility in India with a total capacity…

China offers African nations duty-free trade in strategic push

In a bold move to deepen economic and diplomatic influence across Africa, China has pledged to eliminate tariffs on virtually all imports from African nations that maintain formal ties with Beijing. The new initiative, unveiled in a letter from President Xi Jinping to African foreign ministers, offers “zero-tariff treatment for 100% of tariff lines” to 53 African countries. The lone exception is Eswatini, the only country on the continent that continues to recognize Taiwan, which China regards as a breakaway province.

This sweeping trade offer represents a significant escalation of China’s commercial diplomacy on the continent and coincides with growing global trade tensions, particularly those emanating from Washington. As the U.S., under President Donald Trump, ramps up protectionist policies and reshapes traditional trade frameworks, Beijing is seizing the opportunity to project itself as a reliable economic partner for emerging markets.

Stay informed

error: Content is protected !!