Kenya: Kakamega electrification projects lights 600+ homes

Kenya is a leader in East Africa for expanding electricity access, increasing the rate from 37% in 2013 to 79% in 2023.

Over 400 households are set to benefit in Madzu and Bukhonyi villages in Shinyalu Constituency, following the commissioning of electrification projects in Kakamega County, Kenya.

Implemented by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC),the initiative aims to expand electricity access to remote and underserved areas within the constituency, marking a major milestone in the government’s effort to promote equitable development and improve the quality of life for local residents.

REREC said two projects have now connected 400 homesteads and small businesses to the electricity grid in line with the government’s programme of enhancing connectivity toward universal access.

The Principal Secretary of the State Department for Energy,Alex Wachira, stated “With reliable power now available, families can enjoy improved living conditions, small businesses can thrive and key social institutions such as schools and health centres are better equipped to serve the community.”

Kakamega electrification projects bring electricity to homes, businesses thrive

Meanwhile, in the same County, the Shitirira rural electrification projects in Chemuche ward, Malava Constituency launched. 

The project is set to transform the lives of over 121 households, providing reliable power that will drive social and economic growth across the community.

Speaking at the ceremony, Wachira emphasised the need to protect and secure the infrastructure and the projects to ensure that electrification‘s benefits are fully realised for future generations.

In yet another launch of an electrification initiative, the Mache B Village Electrification Project was launched  in Tsimojela, Chemuche Ward, Malava Constituency in Kakamega County. 

Also implemented by REREC, the project will power over 100 households, a church and key social amenities, unlocking new opportunities for growth, improved livelihoods, and community development.

“These interventions will light homes while also powering small businesses, strengthening learning institutions and enhancing healthcare delivery, emphasizing the role of electricity in driving socio-economic transformation,” stated Wachira.

According to the Kenya Energy Review by the International Energy Agency (IEA), Kenya has made remarkable progress in increasing the rate of access to electricity among its population, putting the country on track to reach universal access to electricity by 2030. 

“Kenya is a leader in East Africa for expanding electricity access, increasing the rate from 37% in 2013 to 79% in 2023. The country is on track to achieve universal access by 2030, and urban electrification has already reached 100%,” said IEA.

Cover photo:  A symbolic flag-off led by Kenyan President William Ruto where 13 electrification projects were set in motion. Source: REREC/ X