CS Wandayi Confirms Blackouts Curb Measures In New Plan
On Saturday, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi unveiled the government’s plan to reduce the country’s frequent blackouts.
Wandayi spoke at the commissioning of the last mile connectivity project in Awendo, Migori County, and pledged the ministry’s commitment to connecting all regions of the country to grid electricity.
“We are committed to ensure that these projects are completed within the shortest time possible to address the issue of frequent power outages in this region,” Wandayi stressed.
“The only solution to the incessant power outages in this region is the completion of those transmission lines.”
We are lighting up Awendo! Earlier today, the Corporation commissioned Nyamchodhre Market Electrification project. The project is set to connect 305 new customers in Awendo Constituency, Migori County. This commissioning is part of a broader effort to enhance access to… pic.twitter.com/nO1Lqs32wS
— Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corp. (@RERECMashinani) September 20, 2024
He also assured the residents that the government had already secured funding for the high-voltage transmission lines from a variety of development partners.
The CS expressed confidence that once the project was completed, the issue of frequent power outages and electricity costs would be addressed.
The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) are collaborating on last-mile connectivity, which aims to connect every region of the country to grid electricity.
In Awendo, Migori County, 305 households will benefit from this project, bringing the ministry closer to its goal.
Wandayi also highlighted plans to expand the Awendo and Kihancha power lines in a bid to boost energy supply to rural areas.
The government officials, led by REREC CEO Dr Rose Mkallama, urged the community to protect government projects from vandalism in order to ensure long-term benefits.
Mkallama urged residents to be welcoming and allow technicians to enter the villages so that even remote constituencies can benefit from the socioeconomic benefits that come with electricity connectivity.
“Allow us to connect electricity because this electricity is going to bring socio-economic developments to you, it is going to benefit you and future generations to come,” she concluded.
Power outages have been a persistent problem in the country for years. In recent years, the entire country has been plunged into darkness on numerous occasions.
CS Wandayi has previously blamed the frequent blackouts on outdated infrastructure, which he claims must be upgraded if the country is to meet its development goals.
The CS added that the government had approved Adani Energy Solutions Limited’s Ksh117 billion power transmission infrastructure proposal, and Kenyans had been invited to a public participation conference on Monday, September 16.
CS Wandayi Confirms Blackouts Curb Measures In New Plan
