As the demand for renewable energy continues to rise, the solar industry in Kenya is poised for significant growth. In fact, a recent study by the Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis found that the sector is expected to create more than 50,000 jobs in the next year alone. Recognizing the need for a skilled workforce to meet this demand, Huawei Kenya has launched the Thousand Digital Power Talents Program in Nairobi. The program aims to build the technical capacity of 120 engineers and is the first of its kind in the country.
According to Oliver Dupeng, CEO of Eastern Africa Digital Power Business at Huawei, the majority of these new jobs will be in operation and maintenance (40%) and construction and installation (40%), while manufacturing, distribution, and research and development make up the remaining 20%. Dupeng emphasized the importance of women in the industry, stating that they are currently underrepresented in technical and management positions, despite making up 40% of the workforce.
In order to address this gap and support the growth of the solar industry in Kenya, Huawei Kenya will host additional training in 2023 to provide further knowledge and skills to solar industry practitioners. The training is in line with recommendations from the Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis to promote knowledge and technology accumulation, new business incubation, and industrial clusters that provide incentives to localize value chain segments.
With Kenya’s estimated solar potential at 15,000 MW and a total value of Kshs 13.5 billion, it’s clear that there is significant opportunity for growth in the sector. Huawei is committed to driving this growth by integrating digital and power electronics technologies and enabling energy digitalization to drive a cleaner, greener future. The company’s Smart PV installation processes aim to make installation more efficient and contribute to the industry’s overall success.
As the solar industry continues to expand in Kenya, it’s important that we have a qualified and capable workforce to meet the demand. Programs like the Thousand Digital Power Talents Program are helping to bridge the capability gap and ensure that the industry has the skilled technicians it needs to thrive.