Kenya Electricity Generating Company Plc appointed Ronoh Kibet Charles as its next managing director and chief executive officer, placing a commercial and geothermal specialist in charge of the state-controlled power producer as it seeks to expand its energy business and consultancy operations.
Kibet will take over on Feb. 1, 2027, succeeding Peter Waweru Njenga, who is retiring, KenGen’s board said in an announcement. He will serve as CEO-designate during the transition period following a competitive recruitment process.
Kibet, who has more than 17 years of experience in geothermal development, project delivery and commercial strategy, currently leads KenGen’s commercial services function. His responsibilities include energy markets, investments, new business development, partnerships, marketing, corporate communications and sustainability.
The appointment comes as KenGen seeks to build on its position in geothermal power generation while developing additional sources of commercial growth.
The company has expanded its geothermal consultancy business beyond Kenya, including assignments in Eswatini, and has advanced plans for the Olkaria Green Energy Park.
KenGen reported a profit after tax of 10.48 billion Kenyan shillings ($81 million) for the financial year 2025, according to the board’s announcement. The company said Njenga’s tenure had strengthened financial performance and supported business diversification.
Kibet’s background combines engineering training with project management and executive education. He holds degrees in telecommunications and information engineering and project management from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He is also a certified Project Management Professional and an SAP Project System Consultant.
His executive training includes Harvard Business School, IESE Business School in Spain, the University of Cape Town and Strathmore Business School. He is affiliated with the Engineers Board of Kenya, the Institution of Engineers of Kenya and the Geothermal Association of Kenya, and holds the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya.
The leadership change comes as energy companies face pressure to expand reliable electricity supply while managing the capital requirements of large infrastructure projects. For KenGen, the incoming chief executive will oversee the next phase of geothermal development and efforts to generate more business from its technical expertise.
The board said the transition period would support continuity in the company’s strategic priorities. It expressed confidence that Kibet would strengthen performance, develop employees and advance growth, innovation and sustainable value creation.