GDC has officially launched the construction of a state-of-the-art Geothermal Science and Analytical Laboratory and office complex at its Kabarak facility in Nakuru County, marking a defining moment in Kenya’s and Africa’s geothermal research and scientific advancement.
GDC Board Chairman Hon. Walter Nyambati led the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 accompanied by members of the Board of Directors, Ag. Managing Director and CEO Mr. Stephen Busieney, General Managers, the management team and a section of staff.
The project marks the first phase of GDC’s long-term masterplan for the Kabarak campus, with the modern laboratory complex and office facilities laying the foundation for what is envisioned as a regional hub for geothermal science, research, innovation and technical excellence.
“Scientific excellence is indispensable to accelerating geothermal development. This project is therefore a strategic investment in science, innovation, research and Kenya’s clean energy future,” said Hon. Nyambati, adding that the Board, together with its partners, had committed more than half a billion shillings towards its construction.
Ag. Managing Director and CEO Mr. Stephen Busieney described the moment as historic, noting that the new laboratories will enhance precision in geothermal exploration, well siting and drilling operations while addressing the limitations of the temporary laboratory facilities that GDC has relied on since its establishment 17 years ago.
“The laboratories we are establishing will not only be state-of-the-art; they will be futuristic and forward-looking, designed to respond to the evolving demands of science, technology and geothermal development,” he said.
He said the investment would cement GDC’s position as a true Geothermal Centre of Excellence while strengthening Kenya’s energy security, supporting industrialisation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing the country’s clean energy ambitions.
On her part, the Chairperson of the Laboratory Construction Steering Committee, Eng. Martha Mburu, who is also the Ag. GM Geothermal Resource Development, expressed deep emotion as years of planning finally translated into reality.
“Today I feel like the mother of the bride,” she said. “I am excited because I know another generation will come and see what we have done and continue with this journey.”
She paid tribute to former GDC leaders and staff who laid the foundation for the project, saying the laboratory will fill a critical gap in the company’s scientific capabilities and strengthen its role as host of the Geothermal Centre of Excellence for the region.
“This dream has been carried by many who have gone ahead of us and would have wished to witness what is happening today. It is a blessing and a privilege. Now I can rest; now I can retire because I have seen the blessings of God,” she enthused.
Once completed, the facility will improve geothermal data quality, strengthen reservoir management and support the company’s pursuit of ISO 17025 laboratory accreditation, while providing a world-class infrastructure for advanced geological, geochemical and environmental analysis, towards cementing Kenya’s position as Africa’s leader in geothermal research and innovation.
Board members present at the event include Mr. Stephen Kisaka, Mr. Richard Mavisi, Mr Boniface Lilah, Ms. Salome Kabando, Eng. Kipkoros Kandie, Ms. Beatrice Soy and Mr. Gerald Mwangi.
