Eng. Julius M. Riungu: Celebrating a Stalwart of Kenya’s Power Sector

Last Updated 2 days ago by Kenya Engineer

The inaugural Power & Transmission Baraza, hosted by the Electricity Sector Association of Kenya (ESAK), marked a significant milestone for the energy fraternity. Yet even amid high-level policy debates and sectoral reflections, one moment stood out: the recognition of Eng. Julius M. Riungu with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Electricity — an honour befitting a man whose influence on Kenya’s power sector spans more than half a century.

A Career That Mirrors the Evolution of Kenya’s Electricity Sector

Few engineers have walked the journey of Kenya’s energy landscape as closely as Eng. Riungu. According to public records and professional publications, his illustrious path includes serving as Chief Executive Officer of Tsavo Power Company Ltd, one of Kenya’s pioneering IPPs, and steering the organisation through critical phases of capacity addition.

His contribution extends well beyond corporate leadership. He served as President of the Federation of African Engineering Organizations (FAEO), positioning Kenya at the heart of continental engineering discourse, and has held senior positions in the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), including nomination to the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK). He has also served in board leadership across various economic sectors, signalling a respected national technocrat.

What stands out most is his unbroken commitment — over 52 years — to Kenya’s pursuit of a stable, secure, and progressive electricity system.

A Thoughtful, Cautionary Acceptance Speech

In his acceptance remarks, Eng. Riungu expressed both gratitude and concern — gratitude for the recognition and concern for the future of Kenya’s energy security. He recalled Kenya’s infamous 1998–2000 power crisis, during which drought crippled hydropower generation, and he was tasked with managing the nationwide rationing programme. It was, he admitted, one of the most challenging moments of his career.

Drawing parallels to today, he warned that Kenya could once again drift toward a difficult situation if structural action is delayed. The “small power rationing” mentioned recently at national level, he suggested, may be a warning sign rather than a passing remark.

He emphasized that Kenya’s energy planning has historically been reactionary, and urged the sector to adopt sustained long-term planning — especially in transmission, generation diversification, and grid resilience.

A Voice Still Guiding the Future

Even as he reflected on his journey, Eng. Riungu’s comments during the baraza made clear that his commitment to the industry remains undimmed. He urged stakeholders to strengthen demand forecasting, expand local generation, and accelerate investments in transmission. He reinforced that wayleaves and land acquisition continue to slow down grid expansion and must be addressed with national-level coordination.

His advice captured the spirit of the event: act early, collaborate widely, and build with the future in mind.

A Legacy Etched Into Kenya’s Power Story

As Kenya moves toward a more industrialized future, the foundation laid by pioneers like Eng. Riungu becomes more critical than ever. His award is not just a recognition of past achievements — it is a reminder of the vision, discipline, and courage needed to build an energy system capable of supporting national growth.

The energy community applauded him with deep respect — not just for what he has accomplished, but for the steady leadership he continues to offer.