Tana river: The national government will allocate Sh500 million to expedite rural electrification initiatives in Tana River County, connecting 4,000 households to the national power grid. This effort forms part of the Ministry of Energy’s broader strategy to achieve universal electricity connectivity across the nation by launching impactful rural electrification projects, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy and off-grid solutions.
According to Kenya News Agency, remote communities in Tana River have awaited connection to the national grid for decades. Energy is viewed by development experts as a catalyst for economic growth and social progress, with Tana River having the largest number of people without electricity access nationwide. Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi, stated the government’s intent to expand electricity access in underserved communities. Emphasizing rural and hard-to-reach areas, Wandayi reiterated the government’s commitment to closing the electricity access gap through rural electrification initiatives.
Wandayi announced efforts to light up villages in remote areas by scaling up renewable energy programs via the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC). Speaking at the launch of electrification schemes in Gubani and Dibe settlements in the Garsen sub-county, the CS unveiled a Sh9.8 million project in Gubani, featuring a 2.25km low-voltage line and transformer, connecting 164 new customers. A Sh25 million project in Dibe connected 141 new customers. Wandayi highlighted that these projects reflect the government’s vision of inclusive national development.
The schemes represent a significant milestone in expanding electricity access and improving rural lives. The CS noted alignment between REREC’s electrification schemes and the government’s aspirations for inclusive development and universal electricity access. Wandayi underscored the government’s determination to leave no community behind in its energy transformation agenda, emphasizing enhanced service delivery and economic stimulation in remote areas.
Wandayi elaborated on the transformative impact of electricity connections on households, business centers, schools, and health centers, fostering inclusive development. The CS pointed out that electricity drives enterprises and transforms lives, with the Kenya Off-grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP) constructing five mini-grids in Tana River to enhance power access.
MP Ali Wario expressed confidence in the power projects transforming service delivery and economic activity. REREC General Manager for Information, Education, and Communication, Beatrice Njuguna, mentioned the launch of major rural electrification schemes to power underserved communities through solar mini-grids and renewable energy solutions. She urged residents to protect electrical equipment from vandalism and ensure its effective use. Njuguna also stated REREC’s collaboration with the Tana River devolved government to equip schools with learning materials, underlining the projects’ broader impact on education, healthcare, agriculture, and overall wellbeing.
