The plans for industrial activities tied to the geothermal fields of Olkaria and Menengai in Kenya, all located in the county of Nakuru made rounds last month.

It is now freshly reported that the county has entered into an agreement with Geothermal Development Company (GDC) under which GDC will provide geothermal energy to local farmers “to enhance food security in the region”.

The MOU was signed, August 14, 2020 by Governor Lee Kinyanjui and GDC Managing Director Jared Othieno.

“We have entered into a deal with GDC. We want our farmers to use steam and technology in food production which will enhance food security and also create wealth for our people. The MoU will help us initiate a partnership on how direct use of steam can benefit farmers through agro-processing, breading of fish, pasteurisation among others,” said Governor Kinyanjui.

County Executive for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Immaculate Njuthe Maina revealed that Nakuru has partnered with GDC to fully incorporate geothermal energy into farming in the region.

“The partnership will go a long way towards empowering farmers and other investors by increasing their production, helping control pests and diseases along with reducing post-harvest losses. Geothermal energy will be critical especially in bolstering the twin pillars of manufacturing and food security in the Big Four agenda,” Dr Maina stated.

With the deal, farmers in Nakuru will now use geothermal energy in crop production and to heat greenhouses to accelerate growth of horticultural products and other crops including vegetables.

The energy will also provide local farmers with reliable and cheap electricity.

“Our aim is to promote the utilisation of geothermal energy for direct use. Reliable and cheap electricity is key to the dairy industry and cooperatives in the region,” added Dr Maina.