China-Africa: Chinese firm to set up Sh30bn power plant
A Chinese company will partner with a regional authority to build a Sh30 billion hydro power plant in Marakwet District.
When complete, the 70 megawatt electricity project is expected to boost the country’s electricity output.
Sinohydro Corporation will work with Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) to construct the plant along Arror River in Kerio Valley.
A team of experts from the firm and senior officials from KVDA visited the site over the weekend to carry out assessments.
“Our company is consulting with the Treasury and KVDA board on the proposal of setting up the power plant,” said Chen Wuqing, deputy regional manager of Sinohydro Corporation, East Africa branch.
High income
He said the company has been involved in construction of hydro-electricity generation plants in Ghana, Sudan, Zambia and Ethiopia among other African countries.
“The Chinese Government enjoys good working relationship with most African countries and we hope the construction work will commence soon,” added Mr Che.
According to KVDA managing director Julius Mutuaruchiu, more than 6,000 hectares of land will also be put under irrigation.
“The project will improve power generation in the country through introduction of 70 MW to national grid. The downstream irrigation will improve food security. The income level of the local community will also rise,” he said.
(nation.co.ke)
Tags: kenya