Kenya Power has set aside approximately Sh1 billion to expand electricity infrastructure in the Western Kenya region.
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Joseph Siror reported that the colossal investment is part of the efforts to enhance electricity connectivity and reliability to domestic and industrial consumers in the region.
Dr Siror made the announcement during the just concluded three-day Nyanza International Investment Conference in Kisumu County.
The investment covers both completed and ongoing projects covering 11 counties including Kisumu, Homa bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Siaya, Vihiga, Busia, Kericho, Bomet, and Kakamega.
Kenya Power, he added, is committed to providing quality and reliable electricity to drive the country’s economic growth.
“Our purpose is to supply adequate and reliable electricity to positively transform lives, as well as support trade and manufacturing which play a crucial role in our country’s social-economic development,” he stated.
The CEO added, “In this regard, we are investing close to Sh1 billion to construct additional power lines in the Western Kenya region. We believe that these projects will, in a great capacity, improve electricity reliability.”
Among the completed projects is the Narok-Bomet 132kV link that is expected to improve power reliability in South Nyanza and Western regions that was set up at a cost of Sh700 million.
The ongoing construction of the Kibos-Miwani-Ahero and Kisian-Luanda 33kV link valued at Sh189 million is expected to improve power reliability and capacity in Kisumu South areas of Ahero, Miwani, Awasi, Katito towns and in Vihiga and Siaya Counties.
Additionally, the ongoing construction of the 132kV line from Ndhiwa substation to Thur Dibuoro will facilitate evacuation of power from Sondu Miriu to South Nyanza and greatly improve power stability in the region. This project is expected to be completed by June this year.
The statement reinforces Energy Cabinet Secretary James Wandayi’s recent announcement regarding the government’s plans to unveil major electricity projects in Nyanza and Western Kenya to enhance power supply.
Speaking during his recent tour to the region CS Wandayi expressed hope that these initiatives will help address the frequent power outages affecting the Western Kenya region.
By Robert Ojwang’
