NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 16 – President William Ruto’s economic adviser David Ndii has refuted claims that Adani Energy Solutions, an Indian conglomerate owned by billionaire Gautam Asani, is hiring new employees for the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO).
In a tweet posted on his X platform, however, Ndii clarified that Adani Energy Solutions and Africa50 are hiring a new team for the building of a transmission line.
He went on to say that the project will cost $1.3 billion (Sh167.7 billion) and that the government will not be paying a dime.
This comes after a legal firm sought transparency with KETRACO over its reported agreements with an Indian firm, Adani Energy Solutions, whose sister company is also facing opposition on the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport proposed lease.
In a letter addressed to its Managing Director, John Mativo, law firm IC Law Advocates has requested access to critical information regarding the partnership.
The letter, dated September 11, 2024, cites the firm’s right to access public information, as guaranteed by the Kenyan Constitution, demanding full disclosure of the project agreements related to the partnership, the financial capacity of Adani Energy Solutions as the tendering company, the tendering process undertaken for the projects, and an appraisal of the legal, regulatory, social, economic, and commercial viability of the projects.
Additionally, the firm is requesting details on public participation in the decision-making process, approval from the Attorney General, and any letters of support, credit guarantees, or risk guarantees issued by the relevant ministries.
