Kenya has been selected to host the World Geothermal Congress (WGC) in 2029, becoming the first African country to stage the global event.
The International Geothermal Association (IGA) confirmed Nairobi as the host city, marking a historic milestone for both Kenya and the continent’s geothermal industry.
The Geothermal Association of Kenya announced on December 9 the start of formal preparations for the high-profile gathering.
“The International Geothermal Association (IGA) is delighted to announce that Nairobi, Kenya, has been selected as the host city for the World Geothermal Congress 2029 (WGC2029),” read the Geothermal Association of Kenya (GAK) statement in part.
According to the GAK statement, Kenya’s position as a leading geothermal power producer and a recognised pioneer in large-scale geothermal development made it a strong candidate. The Congress will highlight Kenya’s advancements in clean energy and showcase the growing geothermal potential across Africa.
Additionally, the Congress will bring global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to Nairobi to examine technological advances and emerging opportunities in geothermal development.
Kenya’s Leadership in Geothermal Energy
Government officials described the win as a national achievement that cements Kenya’s reputation as a regional and global geothermal hub.
Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Opiyo Wandayi said the hosting rights reflect Kenya’s leadership and Africa’s growing influence in the clean energy sector.
He confirmed the government’s full support in organising the event and noted that Kenya will formally receive hosting responsibilities during the handover ceremony at WGC 2026 in Calgary, Canada.
According to the CS, the 2029 Congress will offer an opportunity to showcase Kenya’s progress in renewable energy and demonstrate the continent’s geothermal potential.
“The Government of Kenya is committed to providing all necessary support to ensure the success of this prestigious Congress. I look forward to participating in the handover ceremony during the WGC 2026 in Calgary, Canada,” Wandayi said.
IGA President Dr Bjarni Pálsson stated that the decision to award Kenya the hosting rights underscores the rapid growth and momentum witnessed across Africa’s geothermal landscape.
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He said Nairobi will provide a suitable platform for collaboration and innovation in the global geothermal sector.
“Selecting Kenya as the host of WGC2029 reflects the remarkable leadership and momentum we see across the African geothermal community,” he said.
GAK and Regional Partners Begin Preparations
GAK Board Chairman Peketsa Mangi welcomed the selection, describing it as the outcome of extensive cooperation between local and international partners.
He acknowledged the support of key institutions, including the Government of Kenya, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), Geothermal Development Company (GDC), the United Nations Environment Programme, Tanzania Geothermal Development Company, and Ethiopian Electric Power.
Mangi assured the IGA that GAK is committed to ensuring the 2029 Congress meets global expectations.
Preparations will involve coordination with energy agencies, development partners, and geothermal experts across Africa and beyond.
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He noted that hosting WGC 2029 will allow the continent to highlight its untapped geothermal resources and attract broader international engagement.
The World Geothermal Congress (WGC)
The World Geothermal Congress (WGC) is organised every three years by the International Geothermal Association.
It brings together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to review global progress in geothermal energy and set priorities for the next cycle.
The most recent Congress was held in 2023 in Beijing, China. It brought together major geothermal developers and governments to discuss technological advancements and policy direction for the sector.
The next edition, WGC 2026, is scheduled for 8–12 June 2026 in Calgary, Canada. The handover to Kenya for the 2029 Congress will take place during this event.
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