This archive report was first published on 14 September 2021.
Naivasha, Kenya - September 14, 2021
Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has reopened the Olkaria Geothermal Spa, a unique geothermal leisure center located near Hell's Gate National Park in Naivasha.
The spa, which was temporarily closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, has been given a clean bill of health by the Ministry of Health and Nakuru County Government Health Officials.
"I encourage members of the public visiting our Geothermal Spa to observe all COVID-19 protocols as you enjoy this natural resource that is unique not only in Kenya but in the entire African continent," said KenGen Managing Director and CEO Mrs. Rebecca Miano.
The Olkaria Geothermal Spa is a brainchild of KenGen, born out of the need to explore other uses of geothermal energy. The facility features a series of cascading blue lagoons created from geothermal brine, where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
According to Peketsa Mangi, one of the brains behind the Spa, the facility adds value to Hell's Gate National Park by providing tourists with additional relaxation activities. "The Park will not just be about game drives anymore," he said. "It now also provides other exciting and environment-friendly activities for tourists."
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the center attracted hundreds of visitors each week, with close to 800 visitors during occasions like Easter Holidays.
KenGen intends to diversify and explore other direct uses of geothermal resources, including greenhouse heating, fish farming, and industrial extraction of minerals among others.
