International Geothermal Association

World Geothermal Congress 2029
2029-04-01 - 2029-05-31 | UNON, Nairobi, Kenya
The Hague, Netherlands / Nairobi, Kenya – 09 December 2025 – The International Geothermal Association (IGA) is delighted to announce that Nairobi, Kenya has been selected as the host city for the World Geothermal Congress 2029 (WGC2029). This marks the first time in history that the world’s flagship geothermal event will be held on the African continent.
As one of the world’s leading geothermal nations and a recognized pioneer in large-scale geothermal power generation, Kenya offers a compelling setting for the Congress. WGC2029 will spotlight the innovation, ambition, and growth of geothermal development not only in Kenya but across the entire African region.
Hon. Opiyo Wandayi, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Energy & Petroleum:
“Kenya’s victory to host WGC 2029 is a proud testament to our leadership in geothermal energy and Africa’s rising global stature. The Government of Kenya is committed to providing all required support to make this prestigious Congress a success. I look forward to participating in the hand-over ceremony during the WGC 2026 in Calgary, Canada.”
Dr. Bjarni Pálsson, IGA President:
“Selecting Kenya as the host of WGC2029 reflects the remarkable leadership and momentum we see across the African geothermal community. Nairobi will provide a powerful stage for global collaboration, innovation, and transformation. We look forward to working together with GAK to deliver a Congress that inspires the world.”
Mr. Peketsa Mangi, GAK Board Chairman:
“Thank you to all our partners; the Government of Kenya, Kenya Electricity Generating Company, Geothermal Development Company, United Nations Environment Programme, Tanzania Geothermal Development Company, Ethiopian Electric Power and many others from across the World. I assure IGA that GAK is committed to walking this journey to WGC 2029, and beyond, together.”
Dr. Marit Brommer, IGA Chief Executive Officer:
“As an organization rooted in global collaboration, we are deeply proud that the World Geothermal Congress is heading to Africa for the first time. Kenya stands as a testament to what long-term vision can achieve, and WGC2029 will showcase the power and possibility of Africa’s geothermal future.”
Dr. Gathuru Mburu, WGC 2029 Nairobi, Kenya Organising Committee Chairman:
“Winning this bid is a historic moment; many thanks to the IGA Board – Evaluation Team, the GAK Board, the Kenya – Africa Bid Committee and all our stakeholders. I also recognise and appreciate the other Countries who bid. I welcome everyone to Nairobi to Discover the Beauty and Power of Africa.”
Mr. Gregor Rumberg, IGA Global Events & Strategic Partnerships Manager:
“The passion and professionalism demonstrated by GAK and the entire Kenyan team during the bidding process made a deep impression on us. WGC2029 will highlight Africa’s voice in the global geothermal dialogue, and we are committed to building an exceptional experience together with our Kenyan partners.”
Both organizations will now begin co-developing the Hosting Agreement and operational planning for the Congress. The official hand-over ceremony from Calgary to Nairobi will take place during the closing ceremony of the World Geothermal Congress 2026.
The IGA extends sincere appreciation to all countries that submitted bids. Every proposal demonstrated significant strengths. This decision is not a rejection of the other strong bids, but a recognition of Kenya’s outstanding readiness, vision, and continental positioning.
About the IGA
The IGA, is the leading global platform on geothermal energy, serving as a hub for networking opportunities aimed at promoting and supporting global geothermal development. With its four pillars Insights, Advocacy, Training and Events, the IGA is committed to push geothermal as a gamechanger for achieving clean and affordable energy for all.
About the GAK
GAK is a non-political, non-governmental, non-profit, professional, scientific and educational organization with an objective to encourage, facilitate and promote coordination of activities related to local and worldwide research, development and application of geothermal resources.
Media Contacts
International Geothermal Association (IGA)
Email: iga@lovegeothermal.org
Geothermal Association of Kenya (GAK)
Email: info@gak.co.ke
