Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi on Saturday unveiled the government’s plan to curb frequent blackouts across the country.
Speaking during the commissioning of the last mile connectivity project in Awendo, Migori County, Wandayi pledged the ministry’s commitment to have all regions in the country connected 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. The only solution to the incessant power outages in this region is the completion of those transmission lines.” Wandayi stressed.
He further assured the residents that the government had already secured financing for the high-voltage transmission lines from various development partners.
Kenya Power Staff working on electricity lines
Photo
News Projector
The CS exuded confidence that once the project is completed, the issue of frequent power outages as well as the cost of electricity will be addressed.
The last mile connectivity which aims to leave every single region in the country connected to grid electricity is a part of a collaboration between the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC).
In Awendo, Migori County, 305 households will benefit from this project bringing the ministry closer to realising its goal.
Wandayi also highlighted plans to have the Awendo and Kihancha power lines expanded in a bid to boost energy supply into rural areas
Backed by the CEO of REREC, Dr Rose Mkallama, the government officials urged the community to safeguard the government projects against vandalism as this would be essential in assuring them of long-term benefits.
Mkallama urged the residents to be inviting and let technicians penetrate the villages to ensure that even far flung constituencies can benefit from the socio-economic perks 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.
The issue of power blackouts has consistently plagued the nation over the years. In the recent past, the whole country has been thrown into darkness on several occasions.
CS Wandayi has previously blamed the frequent blackouts on old infrastructure which he stated needs to be upgraded if the country is to realise its development needs.
The CS added the government had approved a Ksh117 billion power transmission infrastructure proposal by Adani Energy Solutions Limited with Kenyans having been invited Kenyans to a public participation conference on Monday, September 16.
CS of Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi at a past media briefing.
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kenyans.co.ke/Opiyo Wandayi
