Kilifi: The government has launched a series of multi-billion-shilling electricity projects aimed at providing stable and reliable power to industries and households across Kilifi County. This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to boosting economic growth, enhancing living standards, and achieving universal electricity access by 2030.
According to Kenya News Agency, President Ruto recently inaugurated a Sh2 billion Last Mile Connectivity project, aiming to connect over 20,000 households in various locations within Kilifi County to the national grid. Additionally, the President commissioned the Sh273 million Sabaki Power Substation, a critical infrastructure expected to enhance power reliability for residents and businesses, especially in the hospitality industry.
Addressing a gathering of local leaders, residents, and stakeholders, President Ruto underscored the importance of these projects in driving development and resolving longstanding power challenges in the county. He announced, “In this Last Mile Connectivity Project, we have allocated the people of Kilifi Sh2 billion to ensure that 20,000 households in various places are connected to the national grid.”
The President further explained the government’s strategic efforts to improve electricity supply, emphasizing the necessity of reliable power for both domestic use and industrial growth. He noted, “Apart from this substation, we are also constructing a transmission line from Mariakani.”
President Ruto expressed optimism about the potential economic transformation in Kilifi County, citing the projects’ capacity to attract investments and create job opportunities, particularly for the youth. “This will ensure that electricity reaches here to be used by households, companies, hotels, and industrial facilities doing business here. This aims to transform Kilifi and will also help the youth in Kilifi to get employment opportunities,” he stated.
Local leaders, including Governor Gideon Mung’aro, praised the government for these initiatives, suggesting they would enhance the county’s investment prospects. The governor noted that Kilifi County is rapidly growing industrially and has become a sought-after investment destination.
Speaking to journalists post-launch, Eng. Kennedy Owino, the Kenya Power and Lighting General Manager of Infrastructural Development, highlighted the significance of the Sabaki substation as one of the company’s flagship projects. He mentioned that PowerGen Technologies has played a crucial role in strengthening the coastal region’s power infrastructure, with successful projects in Kilifi and Taita Taveta County.
Eng. Owino also announced plans to install a solar mini-grid station on Kirepwe Island to ensure residents have access to reliable power.