In a milestone for East Africa’s regional integration and digital transformation agenda, the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) welcomed a high-ranking delegation from the Burundi Backbone System (BBS) for a strategic benchmarking and knowledge-sharing engagement in Nairobi.
The visit was designed to enhance collaboration in power transmission and broadband connectivity, aligning with the goals of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which emphasize sustainable infrastructure and shared growth across the continent.
The session was led by Dr. Lawrence Kimando, KETRACO’s General Manager for Strategy, Research, and Compliance, who guided the discussions on KETRACO’s pioneering fiber-leasing initiative—a model that enables energy utilities to diversify income streams while promoting digital access and inclusion.
Representing KETRACO were Business Development Manager Sarah Mugo, Systems and Technology Manager Arnold Ndukuyu, Quality Assurance and Risk Management Manager Grace Ndegwa, Senior Business Development Officer Anthony Wamalwa, and technical specialists from the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) division, Eng. Kennedy Njoroge and Robert Kiogora. Bandwidth & Cloud Services was represented by John Orutwa (Head of Engineering) and Mary Kahura (Legal Department).
Through its Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) technology, KETRACO embeds fiber optic cables within its high-voltage power lines, ensuring secure communication while providing excess capacity for broadband services. Since being licensed as a Network Facility Provider Tier 2 (NFPT2) in 2014, the company has leased fiber to leading telecommunications firms including Safaricom, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Jamii Telecommunications, Airtel Kenya, SEACOM, KENET, and Bandwidth & Cloud Services, effectively transforming its infrastructure into a backbone for Kenya’s digital economy.
KETRACO also plays a crucial role in the Digital Superhighway Project, a government initiative aimed at connecting schools, hospitals, and markets through high-speed internet, further promoting equitable access to digital services nationwide.
The BBS delegation, representing Burundi’s national broadband wholesaler, sought insights into KETRACO’s success in integrating energy and ICT infrastructure. Discussions also covered potential cooperation with REGIDESO, Burundi’s national electricity and water utility, to advance future cross-border energy initiatives.
“Cross-border collaboration in energy and connectivity is vital to our regional development,” said Dr. Kimando. “By sharing our expertise, we help strengthen the foundation for economic growth and technological advancement across East and Central Africa.”
He added that KETRACO’s infrastructure planning takes into account access, power availability, and customer needs to maximize efficiency. “Our integrated model enhances both power trade and digital connectivity, contributing to Africa’s collective progress,” he noted.
The engagement reinforces KETRACO’s status as a regional leader in energy diplomacy, innovation, and sustainable infrastructure. Through its partnerships and advanced technical capabilities, the company continues to elevate Kenya’s role as a hub for connectivity and regional cooperation.
Looking ahead, KETRACO is preparing to launch Consultancy Services to share its expertise in transmission system design, feasibility studies, engineering supervision, environmental and social impact assessments, resettlement planning, and enterprise support services. The company will also offer advisory solutions in finance, human capital management, ICT, risk management, quality assurance, and public-private partnerships.
These initiatives underscore KETRACO’s commitment to driving Africa’s integration through shared infrastructure, knowledge exchange, and sustainable innovation.