Assessing the Role of Kengen’s Turkwel Hydroelectric Power Station in Peacebuilding Among Communities in Turkwel River Basin (2015–2025)

Abstract

Kenya’s Vision 2030 promotes large-scale infrastructure to achieve economic growth and social stability; however, the peacebuilding potential of these projects in fragile and conflict-affected areas remains insufficiently studied. This study examines the Turkwel Hydroelectric Power Station, managed by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), to evaluate its role in fostering peace and collaboration between the Pokot and Turkana communities in Turkwel, where the project is located. Historical land-related contestations and resource competition have fueled tensions in this region, making it a critical case for assessing the role of infrastructure in bridging divides. The study specifically investigates KenGen’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and project operations, analysing their impact on community relations, equitable resource access, and conflict dynamics. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, blending quantitative and qualitative data for a comprehensive analysis. Household surveys were administered to 95 respondents within the power station through semi-structured questionnaires to examine access to services, perceived fairness in CSR benefits, and community trust in KenGen’s impacts on social cohesion. Focus Group Discussions of about 10 participants from the Pokot and Turkana peace committees gathered insights on community perceptions of peace outcomes from project activities. Additionally, 21 key informant interviews were undertaken with KenGen’s senior management, CSR and community relations officers, county and national government officials, and leaders of public benefit organisations driving peacebuilding efforts. For more contextual depth, a secondary data review of KenGen reports, government policies, and peace program evaluations was undertaken. This study addresses a critical gap: while prior research emphasises the economic impacts of hydroelectric projects, their peacebuilding potential in ethnically diverse, conflict-affected settings like Turkwel remains underexplored. The findings offer a methodological framework for assessing similar projects across East Africa, guiding policymakers and energy companies to align infrastructure with sustainable peacebuilding. Inspired by ongoing community dialogues in Turkwel, this study aims to inform strategies that foster equitable development and social harmony in fragile regions.