| Abstract |
Geothermal energy is anticipated to play an important role in meeting the global energy demand in the coming century. Geothermal in Africa is expected to compete with other renewable energy sources, in particular solar. However, the rate of geothermal development in Africa has been slow partly due to lack of trained human resources in geothermal technology and risk funds. This paper looks at the need to develop critical human competencies in Eastern Africa required for accelerated geothermal development in the region. Among the areas with inadequacies within the East African Rift Countries include geology, geochemistry, geophysics, reservoir engineering, drilling, steam-field engineering, power plant operation and maintenance and environmental management. The paper recommends that an aggressive training programme needs to be put in place to address the identified training needs. The recommended training should include overseas training for degree and diploma certificates; short courses of one to four months duration, and local and foreign internships The Geothermal Development Company and KenGen are proposed as local organizations that can support training via internships. |