Joseph Lantare has had an illustrious career of over 13 years. It is as Security Manager of Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) that he says has been the most fulfilling and impactful. Here, he is charged with the task of overseeing the security of Africa’s largest wind farm, which, as of 2024, contributed 10.89% to Kenya’s grid.
A holder of a Diploma in Education and Certifications from Kenya School of Security Management (KSSM) and the Africa School of Leadership, he says these educational and professional qualifications are what have supported his growth from supervisor to senior manager.
His professional journey started in 2012, and before LTWP, Lantare had worked for G4S Kenya and Africa Oil Kenya. At LTWP, Lantare’s role involves developing and executing security strategies, managing the security team, overseeing training programs, and collaborating with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of personnel, assets, and operations. This is a role he holds dearly.
“Because LTWP is in a remote part of Kenya, we face various security threats, from physical intrusions to evolving cybersecurity risks. LTWP ensures that I continuously sharpen my skills in leadership, cyber security, emergency response, strategic thinking & crisis management by attending industrial conferences and leadership development programmes,” Lantare notes.
Integrated approach to security
When Lantare joined LTWP in 2017, his primary focus was physical security. However, this has since evolved to encompass a broader, more integrated approach that includes cybersecurity, operational resilience and staff safety.
“At LTWP, we have responded to these challenges by implementing multi-layer security strategies, including advanced surveillance and real-time monitoring. This includes constant vigilance to detect any unusual activity,” Lantare says.
LTWP emphasises a proactive approach for maintaining a secure and stable operating environment, including comprehensive risk assessments and continuous improvement to avoid potential threats. It is this comprehensive risk management framework and prompt responsiveness to emerging threats that have enabled his team to safeguard personnel and assets.
“We train our security teams in security intelligence, situational awareness, and early detection of potential security breaches. This preparedness helps our team to identify and respond swiftly to emerging threats, thereby preventing escalation of conflict and ensuring continuity of operations,” explains Lantare.
Proactive risk management
“By organizing regular training sessions, security drills and awareness campaigns that engage all departments, we stay abreast and cultivate a culture of safety that is preceded by strong communication and continuous education, because after all, every employee contributes to LTWP’s collective security goals and the greater sustainability agenda,” he adds.
In addition to training, the wind farm has a reporting system that helps in response time and action. Lantare says the security department has implemented safety protocols, monitors potential risks, and ensures rapid response capabilities so that other departments function without undue concern for their safety or the integrity of operational assets.
The protective framework minimises the likelihood of security-related incidents, such as injuries to staff or damage to critical assets, which could otherwise impede productivity and disrupt operations.
“We also have Observation Points along the perimeter of the wind farm that enable us to monitor all 365 turbines,” Lantare adds.
A career in security
Lantare advises anyone considering a career in security, particularly within the renewable energy sector, to be proactive in learning, not just about security protocols, but also about the energy industry and technology advancement. He says the sector demands technical expertise and strong interpersonal skills to build trust across departments and develop suitable security measures.
“LTWP is a platform for making a real difference. It invests in its people and encourages innovation. The LTWP leadership supports work-life balance, values our contributions and ensures we grow professionally and personally. It is wonderful to be part of a team that has a sense of purpose and collaboration, whilst contributing to sustainable development and energy access in Kenya!” he notes
Lantare aspires to enhance his skills in security and risk management while mentoring other upcoming security professionals. He hopes to dedicate more time to community outreach, particularly towards promoting safety education in local schools.
