NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 24 – Kenyan power generation company, Craftskills Wind Energy International Limited, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 United Nations Person of the Year in Kenya Award for its outstanding contributions to sustainable energy and community development.
Founded by three Kenyans with international support, Craftskills established Kipeto Energy’s 100MW onshore wind farm, Kenya’s second-largest, which powers around 250,000 households via 60 GE turbines located in Kajiado County’s Esilanke area.
The United Nations Person of the Year is an annual honor awarded to individuals or organizations whose work advances the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Kipeto’s focus on renewable energy contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action by offsetting 175,741 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.
In addition to job creation, including 400 local roles during construction and 70 positions sustained in operations, the project has had a lasting community impact through the Kipeto Community Trust, which receives 5% of annual profits to fund local projects in education, healthcare, and water access.
“Kipeto’s commitment to community engagement and sustainable development sets a high standard for responsible corporate behavior,” said Stephen Jackson, United Nations Resident Coordinator.
Jackson praised Kipeto’s initiatives, which include the construction of 84 homes for families located within 500 meters of the turbines, highlighting the company’s dedication to improving local living conditions.
The award aligns with UN Day celebrations, a tradition recognizing individuals or institutions in Kenya whose achievements advance the SDGs and inspire positive change.
