John Mativo Replaced by Kipkemoi Kibias as Acting MD in KETRACO Leadership Shake-up

Last Updated 3 months ago by Kenya Engineer

The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has made a major change at its top: Engineer John Muoki Mativo has been relieved of his duties as Managing Director/CEO, effective 19 September 2025, and Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias has been appointed in an acting capacity.

Background

Tenure of John Mativo: Dr. Eng. John Mativo was appointed substantive MD/CEO in April 2023. His contract was expected to run till 2026.
Reason for Exit: The official announcement does not cite a specific cause for his removal. KETRACO’s Board expressed appreciation for his “invaluable service and contribution.”

Who is Kipkemoi Kibias

Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias is a seasoned professional in Kenya’s energy and power‐sector engineering circles. Key credentials:

Over 20 years of experience in the power sector, including design & construction, system planning, operations, and maintenance.
Formerly General Manager for System Operation & Power Management at KETRACO.
Earlier roles in Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), including Regional Manager, County Manager, and in technical and operational positions.
Academic qualifications:
- BSc Electrical & Electronics Engineering from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology (JKUAT)
- MBA (Strategic Management), Catholic University of Eastern Africa
- Master’s in Nuclear Power Plant Engineering from KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS), Ulsan, South Korea
- Currently pursuing PhD in Energy Studies at Moi University
Memberships / professional standing: Registered with the Engineers Board of Kenya, corporate member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), and involved in the Federation of African Engineering Organisations (FAEO) Nuclear Committee.

Implications for the Engineering Sector & Transmission Infrastructure

This leadership transition comes at a critical time for Kenya’s electricity grid development. Some likely implications:

Continuity vs Change
‣ With Kibias already embedded in the technical and operational structures of KETRACO, continuity of ongoing projects is probable. However, acting appointments sometimes slow decision‐making or lead to shifts in strategic priorities, depending on the mandate given.
Project Delivery & PPPs
‣ One of KETRACO’s major roles is executing high‐voltage transmission lines and regional interconnectors, often under Public‐Private Partnerships (PPPs). Any change in leadership could affect the pace or structure of these projects. Engineers and contractors will be watching how Kibias handles pending and future PPP engagements.
Technical Capacity & Vision
‣ Kibias’ deep technical background suggests that technical rigor may be emphasized—especially in areas like planning, system operation, maintenance, and possibly greater focus on renewable energy integration. His qualification in Nuclear Power Plant Engineering also hints at openness to advanced / non‐conventional energy tech or international standards.
Regulatory, Policy & Stakeholder Relations
‣ The Board notes the appointment followed consultations with the Chief of Staff & Head of Public Service and the Cabinet Secretary for Energy & Petroleum. This suggests the change is in line with government expectations or policies. For engineers, this means technical decisions will likely be circumscribed by policy direction and political oversight.
Signals for Engineers & Institutions
‣ For professional engineers and engineering institutions, such transitions are a reminder of the importance of maintaining competence, transparency, and alignment with national energy goals.
‣ Also highlights that advanced education (MBAs, specialized engineering degrees) and cross‐sector experience are valued in leadership roles.

What to Watch Going Forward

Will the Board make the appointment permanent, and if so, when?
Will there be shifts in priority for certain transmission line projects, especially those connected to renewable energy or regional power pools?
How will performance metrics change under new leadership – e.g. grid reliability, losses, maintenance backlog, project completion times?
The financial health / funding of KETRACO’s pipeline – especially in PPPs – and how this may be managed under Kibias.
Any changes in collaboration with KPLC, Ministry of Energy & Petroleum, regulators (e.g. EPRA), and international partners.

The removal of Eng. John Mativo and appointment of Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias as acting MD/CEO marks a significant moment for KETRACO. For the engineering community and stakeholders in Kenya’s power sector, it is a period of both uncertainty and opportunity. The leadership qualities, technical competence, and strategic vision of the incoming acting MD will matter greatly in ensuring Kenya’s transmission infrastructure meets its expanding demand, supports integration of renewables, and aligns with national energy targets.