Kenya Power’s Lilian Kanana Kamanja has been named among Kenya’s Top 40 Under 40 Women for 2025 by Business Daily Africa. Lillian is a Project engineer overseeing the Hybridization of diesel mini-grids with solar.
Passionate about eradicating energy poverty, Lilian is leading efforts to retrofit diesel power stations with solar and wind energy, advancing access to clean and reliable power. “I am surprised to be nominated among these impactful women and feel elated and honoured to have my work and contributions recognised,” she says.
An electrical engineer by training, Lilian’s academic journey took her from Kyeni Girls in Embu to the University of Nairobi, and later to the Indian Institute of Technology, the pinnacle of engineering excellence, where she earned a Master’s in Renewable Energy Technologies and Management. Lilian also got a scholarship from the Ministry of Energy and the International Solar Alliance through Kenya Power, where she had worked for a year.
She earned the African Queen of Energy Research Award in December 2024, for her groundbreaking research in techno-economic analysis, which incorporates solar technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Beyond her role at Kenya Power, she co-founded Gamma Energy, a platform that promotes mentorship, networking, and professional registration for female engineers. She also serves as Vice Chair of the Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Power & Energy Society, Kenya.
Her recognition is a testament to her leadership, technical expertise, and dedication to powering a sustainable future for Africa.
Top 40 Under 40 is an annual list published by Business Daily Africa that recognises and celebrates the achievements of 40 young, influential individuals in Kenya who are under the age of 40.