Kenya’s Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Kawi Complex in Nairobi, establishing the Africa Solar Belt Project that will see 80 off‑grid solar power systems installed in remote locations.

The MoU was announced by Chinese Ambassador Guo Haiyan and Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira, who reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to renewable‑energy cooperation and climate action.

Selected sites include communities in Tana River and Kilifi counties as well as Maasai Mara University, where solar photovoltaic panels will be installed to provide reliable electricity beyond the national grid.

The installations are intended to power schools, health facilities and water‑supply systems, improving learning conditions, supporting digital education and ensuring consistent service delivery in the targeted areas.

UNICEF will support the programme with matching funds, technical expertise and other resources, focusing on benefits for children and vulnerable groups.

Both governments highlighted the need for coordinated operation, maintenance and long‑term sustainability of the solar assets, linking the project to Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the Bottom‑Up Economic Transformation Agenda.