Kiambu County Government plans to turn to solar lighting systems after the revelation that it has been spending Sh1.7 billion annually on electricity bills for street lights.
Governor Kimani Wamatangi said the county gets a monthly electricity bill of Sh 142 million for street lighting, and it could soon get to Sh 200 million a month due to rising power tariffs.
Speaking while groundbreaking the construction of a Sh 50 million new level 3 hospital in Kahawa Sukari ward, Ruiru Sub County, Wamatangi said he has instructed that all street lighting projects be solar-oriented.
He said if they fail to introduce a solar lighting system, electricity bills will take up most of the county’s budget.
“The county government will now invest in solar energy, and I have issued a directive that all new street lighting projects be solar-oriented to save on our budget. If the trend continues, we will no longer be able to pay our electricity bills,” said the governor.
On healthcare, the governor said his administration has kicked off construction of 13 new level 3 hospitals across the county at a total cost of Sh 650 million in a bid to enhance healthcare services.
He added that the county government is in the process of refurbishing and re-equipping other health facilities to the tune of about Sh 900 million as it seeks to enhance health care service delivery in the county.
The governor said at the same time that they are considering putting Community Health Promoters (CHPs) on the payroll due to the important role that they play in health care delivery.
The county’s health care has been the subject of criticism by stakeholders and local leaders, who have termed it dire, citing lack of drugs, essential equipment, and staff.
They have been calling on the governor to address the challenges that have bedevilled the sector.
By Muoki Charles
