Cooperation platform for a green hydrogen ecosystem between Kenya and Bavaria

Renewable energies as the basis for establishing a green hydrogen economy in Kenya

Kenya is one of the African countries with a particularly high proportion of renewable energies. Currently, the majority of electricity is generated from geothermal, hydro, wind and solar energy sources. However, the country's energy demand is also growing continuously. Kenya aims to transition entirely to renewable energy sources for its electricity supply by 2030.

This situation creates new opportunities, particularly for green hydrogen production. Green hydrogen is produced using electricity from renewable sources and is considered a climate-friendly energy source for the future. It can be applied where electricity cannot be used directly, such as in industrial high-temperature processes, long-distance transport and long-term energy storage.

Kenya: National hydrogen strategy and international cooperation

To exploit this potential, Kenya adopted a national green hydrogen strategy in 2023. This strategy outlines the political and economic framework for the gradual establishment of a hydrogen economy.

However, the country is still in the early stages of this development. Developing expertise, technical skills, and suitable funding and investment instruments takes time. International cooperation is therefore essential for sharing experiences and accelerating development.

Focus on exchange, learning and joint solutions

This is precisely where the project from the German Government and Federal States Programme (BLP) steps in. It establishes the Bavarian-Kenyan cooperation platform, bringing together stakeholders from both countries in the fields of business, research, education and administration. 

The aim is to learn from each other, share experiences, and develop practical solutions for using green hydrogen together. The platform facilitates testing new technologies in real-world conditions, ongoing professional development for skilled workers, and the formation of long-term partnerships. In this way, the project will contribute to the sustainable development of a climate-friendly hydrogen economy in Kenya.

Why Bavaria is an important partner in the field of hydrogen

Bavaria has extensive experience in hydrogen and renewable energy. Here, universities, research institutions, innovative companies and specialised networks work closely together to develop new technologies and practical applications.

Through its hydrogen strategy and commitment to international collaboration, Bavaria is applying its expertise to global projects for the future. This links Bavarian expertise with Kenya's significant energy and development potential. The cooperation benefits both sides, providing access to a growing future market and facilitating the exchange of experience, knowledge and technologies.

The role of BayFOR and WKS Bavaria-Africa

The Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) is responsible for specific tasks within the overall project, which are carried out by its thematic units, particularly the Bavaria-Africa Scientific Coordination Office (WKS Bavaria-Africa).

The WKS Bavaria-Africa supports the development of scientific, research and innovation cooperation between Bavaria and African countries. By doing so, it contributes to a clear political mandate: the Bavarian state government is committed to strengthening its long-term cooperation with African countries. Kenya has been part of Bavaria's Africa strategy since 2023, particularly in renewable energy and climate-friendly transformation.

Within the project, WKS Bavaria-Africa acts as a link between politics, science and industry. Its tasks include:

• Networking
  We are bringing together stakeholders from Bavarian and Kenyan universities, research institutions, companies and public institutions.·
• Exchange and dialogue
  We organise events and formats in which knowledge and experiences are shared.
• Integration of existing networks
  We are linking up with initiatives and networks that are already established in Bavaria, Europe and Africa.
• Long-term perspective
  Supporting the development of further cooperation and joint projects beyond the project's duration.

Through its work, WKS Bavaria-Africa is contributing to the practical implementation of international research and innovation cooperation, paving the way for a sustainable, climate-friendly energy future.