The Menengai Environmental and Social Management Program (ESMP) has been commended by the Nigerian Defence forces. The team visited the Menengai Geothermal project accompanied by the Kenya Forest Service to learn how the geothermal project is undertaking environmental conservation.
According to Mr. Benedict Omodi, the Head of Nigerian Defense Forces delegation, the environmental program initiated by GDC is great, especially the aspect of community engagement through seedlings donation. The GDC tree nursery is managed by casuals from the community.
“We are very impressed to see how green energy and afforestation are combined in one project. This is the way to go and I know this will change the green energy landscape in Kenya” Mr. Omodi said. He added that through geothermal, Kenya will be a power hub for the East African region and promote industrial growth through the direct use of the geothermal project.
Speaking at Menengai, Environment Manager Mr. Gabriel Wetangula noted that the Social Afforestation Programme has been able to create community awareness. Menengai residents are now planting trees in their farms as a result of the awareness programme.
The GDC team was led by the Central Rift Regional Manager, Mr. Paul Ngugi, North Rift Regional Manager Mr. John Lagat, among other GDC staff.
