Kapsabet:Nandi The Nandi County Government is set to install a solar power system at the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital’s Mother and Baby Health Complex. This initiative aims to reduce electricity costs and ensure a reliable power supply when President William Ruto inaugurates the facility.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Stephen Sang announced that the county has partnered with KCB Bank to finance the solarisation project. This collaboration is expected to alleviate the financial burden of operating the modern health facility. Currently, the hospital spends between Sh1.2 million and Sh1.5 million monthly on electricity, a cost the governor hopes to eliminate through the solar installation.
The financing arrangement with KCB Bank involves the hospital paying its usual electricity costs for five years, after which it will benefit from free solar energy for the remaining 20 years of the system’s lifespan. The county opted for this plan as it could not accommodate the estimated Sh80 million required for the installation within its budget. KCB Bank extended its solarisation partnership, initially focused on schools, to support the county’s health facilities.
Governor Sang emphasized that the solar initiative will help reduce operational expenses and ensure that critical medical equipment remains powered. He expressed confidence that the installation would be completed by January and revealed plans to expand the program to other health facilities as part of broader efforts to modernize healthcare infrastructure.
The Mother and Baby Health Complex was developed with the county government’s investment in infrastructure and the National Government’s support in equipping the facility. Sang encouraged residents to use the hospital, citing his personal experience with the facility as a testament to the quality of services provided.
The governor also highlighted other ongoing health projects within the county aimed at expanding access to specialized medical services. Additionally, Nandi County is investing in agricultural value addition to stimulate economic growth.
The President’s upcoming visit will mark a significant milestone in healthcare development for the region, with the Mother and Baby Health Complex strengthening maternal and newborn healthcare services. The solar power initiative is anticipated to enhance the hospital’s sustainability by reducing reliance on conventional electricity, thus freeing up resources for other essential health services.
