Born and raised in Mt. Kulal, Jackson Leyamyam grew up in a nomadic community where livestock was not just wealth, but a way of life. He spent his formative years in Mt. Kulal and attended Marsabit Boys High School. Today, he maintains a deep connection to this pastoral heritage, often tending to his livestock, guiding them across the dry plains and sharing stories with elders in his community, especially on quiet mornings during his rest and recuperation.
So, what led him into the heart of Africa’s largest wind farm?
Passion rooted in people and health
Leyamyam’s professional journey started with a fascination for human health. “I wanted to understand the link between nutrition and human beings,” he shares. This curiosity led him to pursue a Diploma in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from Kreston College and later a Degree from Kenya Methodist University in the same course.
His early career saw him serve as a Clerk at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, an intern at Marsabit General Hospital and an enumerator for organisations like Food for the Hungry and Concern Worldwide. Each role, though distinct, deepened his appreciation for structured systems, data management and community wellbeing – lessons that would later prove invaluable in his work at Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP).
In August 2016, Jackson joined LTWP as an Access Control Officer during the construction phase. His responsibilities included managing access systems, producing data reports, creating access cards and coordinating repairs and maintenance.
LTWP supported Leyamyam to complete his Bachelor’s degree and has further facilitated his training in Fire Safety, Defensive Driving, Data Analysis, First Aid and Food Safety Management Systems (ISO 22,000).
In March 2019, his diligence and problem-solving skills earned him recognition, and he was promoted to Deputy Camps Manager, an achievement he attributes to hard work and merit. Today, Leyamyam oversees LTWP’s camps’ Management and Operations contract, coordinates camp maintenance, prepares reports and budgets, and hosts visitors to the wind farm.
On a typical day, he starts by attending morning progress meetings with the Projects Management team and subcontractors on camp-related projects. He then coordinates and organises accommodation bookings for visitors. His colleagues describe him as a calm and dependable leader with an exceptional ability to rally teams toward solutions.
Championing health and wellbeing
One of Leyamyam’s proudest achievements at LTWP is the creation of the ‘Health Corner’ – a section of the camp menu that offers nutritious meal options such as boiled meat, brown bread, brown rice and steamed veggies.
Drawing on his background in nutrition, he proposed the initiative to promote healthier eating habits among staff. Since its introduction, the Health Corner has been a success, with employees reporting fewer cases of acidity and improved well-being. “It’s fulfilling to see my training directly improve the daily lives of my colleagues,” he shares.
“My current focus is on completing camp-related projects, including the construction of additional accommodation units to address space constraints caused by the growing number of contractors on site,” He notes when asked about his plans.
A culture of community empowerment
Leyamyam highlights LTWP’s Winds of Change initiative, which supports local communities, as something he has personally benefited from as a community member. “LTWP has changed perceptions in our community, and young people now see renewable energy as a viable, exciting career path. In my free time, I mentor the local youth and encourage them to pursue STEM courses that will allow them to seize opportunities in the renewable energy sector.”
He attributes LTWP’s success to a culture built on teamwork and collaboration, where these values are not only stated but actively practised every day. He adds that the consistent and genuine support from the leadership and colleagues is what makes LTWP stand out as a truly people-centred organisation.
Outside work, Leyamyam is an active user of LTWP’s welfare facilities, where his love for football and swimming shines. He views these facilities as an extension of the company’s culture – promoting wellness, team spirit, and connection among employees. “I found a home at LTWP,” he reflects, “where my diverse talents – as a pastoralist, a nutritionist, and a leader converge.”
Leyamyam is not just supporting a renewable energy project; he is helping to power the very people who are building it, proving that the most vital energy source is a healthy, empowered human spirit.
