Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged stronger and more coordinated investment efforts across the continent, saying Africa’s shift toward a green economy will depend on how quickly governments and private players can convert policy ambitions into real, financeable projects.
Speaking at the closing of the Kenya International Investment Conference held in Upper Hill, Nairobi, Kindiki noted that Africa holds vast potential in renewable energy, supported by a young workforce and growing markets, but continues to face limited investment inflows needed to fully tap into these advantages.
He pointed out that despite the continent’s natural advantages in clean energy resources, the level of capital directed toward Africa remains low compared to its potential. He said this gap continues to slow down progress in building a strong green industrial base.
Kindiki stressed the need for deliberate measures to attract investors, including the development of structured project pipelines and the use of innovative financing models. He said such steps would help position Africa as a dependable destination for long-term investment, especially for those focused on climate-friendly projects.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at the Africa Green Industrialization Initiative (AGII) forum in Nairobi on March 27, 2026PHOTO/DPCSHe also referenced the Nairobi Declaration as a guiding framework for the continent’s transition to a low-carbon economy. According to him, the focus should not only be on making commitments at policy level but on ensuring those commitments are translated into practical projects that can be funded and implemented.
He added that turning ideas into bankable ventures is key to unlocking industrial growth and delivering real outcomes in sectors such as clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and green manufacturing. Without this shift, he warned, many of the continent’s ambitions risk remaining at the planning stage.
Highlighting Kenya’s position, Kindiki noted that over 90 percent of the country’s electricity is generated from renewable sources. He said this gives Kenya a strong foundation to lead in green development and to serve as a model for other African countries pursuing similar goals.
He further pointed out that Kenya’s strategic location, combined with ongoing infrastructure expansion, places it in a favorable position to act as a regional hub for green manufacturing and trade. This, he said, presents clear opportunities for investors seeking both returns and long-term sustainability in their investments.
