The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has dismissed its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eng. John Muoki Mativo, and appointed Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias as Acting MD/CEO effective September 19, 2025.
- •In its notice, the Board said the decision was made in consultation with the Chief of Staff & Head of Public Service and the Cabinet Secretary for Energy & Petroleum.
- •Dr. Mativo had led KETRACO since April 2023 under a three-year renewable contract.
- •Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias, who now takes over in an acting capacity, previously served as General Manager for System Operation & Power Management at KETRACO.
A formal Board statement thanked Dr. Mativo for his service but did not disclose the reasons for his removal. Media reports suggested undisclosed issues linked to procurement and operational oversight, though no official confirmation has been provided.
Kibias Takes Over
Dr. Mativo’s tenure coincided with the rollout of KETRACO’s Fourth Strategic Plan (2023–2028), operationalization of the system operator mandate under the Energy Act 2019, and execution of large transmission projects central to Kenya’s energy transition.
He brings more than 20 years of sector experience, spanning design and construction, system planning, operations, and renewable energy integration. Before joining KETRACO, he held various regional and county leadership roles at Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC).
Kibias holds degrees in engineering and business, including a BSc from JKUAT, an MBA, and an MSc in Nuclear Power Plant Engineering from South Korea. He is pursuing a PhD in Energy Studies and is a registered professional engineer and member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya.
The leadership change comes as KETRACO expands high-voltage lines, interconnectors, and renewable integration.
