The story of Africa should not be one of energy poverty

Kenneth Oyakhire shares GE Vernova’s mission to electrify Africa

Kenneth Oyakhire, Managing Director, Services – SSA for GE Vernova’s Gas Power, shared the mission to electrify and change the story of the African continent.

Oyakhire spoke to ESI Africa about the company’s role in powering the continent’s energy transition—while balancing sustainability, reliability, and affordability.

GE Vernova, a purpose-built company focused on decarbonising and electrifying the world, supplies more 45% of Africa’s electricity through its equipment.

He emphasised that Africa’s story should not be one of energy poverty but it should be one of growth, innovation, and reliable power for all.

Oyakhire further discusses the company’s strategic projects across Africa and explains how GE Vernova sees the role of existing technology as boosting output without increasing fuel and how they can use the Secunda power plant retrofit as a blueprint for carbon emission reduction.

Cover photo:   kutchek©123rf