Homa bay: The Senate Standing Committee on Energy has raised concerns over the low level of electricity connectivity in Homa Bay County, particularly in Ndhiwa Constituency, saying inadequate access to power is holding back businesses, schools and economic development.
According to Kenya News Agency, the committee, headed by Senator William Kisang (Elgeyo Marakwet), conducted an inspection of Last-Mile Connectivity projects in the county as part of efforts to assess the progress of electricity projects and identify areas requiring urgent intervention.
The delegation included Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga of Siaya, Senator (Nominated) Dr. Beatrice Ogola, the committee’s vice chairperson, and Senator James Lomenen of Turkana. Kisang expressed surprise at the low connectivity levels in Ndhiwa despite the area’s economic potential, noting that the region’s connectivity remains significantly below expectations at approximately 35 per cent.
Kisang emphasized that the inspection was part of a broader mandate to ensure government energy investments were benefiting communities as intended. He highlighted the urgency to engage Kenya Power to allocate resources effectively for this sub-county, given its productive agricultural background and economic activities.
Senator Lomenen described the situation as alarming, pointing out the lack of reliable electricity for residents and businesses, despite existing power infrastructure. He voiced concerns over the operational challenges faced by businesses reliant on electricity and schools unable to utilize computers due to the lack of power.
Lomenen criticized situations where electricity infrastructure existed without actual connectivity, stressing the residents’ right to power. He expressed optimism that government intervention would resolve these issues, hoping for comprehensive connectivity in future visits.
The Senate committee committed to ongoing engagement with Kenya Power and relevant agencies to advocate for increased resource allocation and targeted interventions. They aim to expedite the completion of stalled projects and ensure communities benefit from electricity infrastructure.
Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) Regional Manager Zach Magomere acknowledged the connectivity challenges, detailing plans to connect 52 homesteads by September’s end. Magomere assured citizens of ongoing efforts to improve access and recognized the current connectivity level at approximately 35 per cent.
The committee’s inspection commenced in Siaya County, where members visited a nuclear power project expected to begin commissioning in March next year.
