Busia: President William Ruto has launched a transformative Last Mile Connectivity Energy Project worth Ksh. 1 billion in Busia County in a bid to expand electricity access to underserved communities. This initiative is set to benefit around 20,000 households by optimizing 148 transformers, revolutionizing power distribution in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, the President promised to provide affordable and reliable electricity which is expected to increase local communities’ access to power, enhance living conditions, and speed up economic development. “Through this transformative project, we are not just lighting up homes. We are providing opportunities, boosting businesses, and improving the lives of over 20,000 households in Busia County,” he said.
He also emphasized that the project’s successful completion would promote inclusive development in addition to boosting economic activity. “Electricity connects people to opportunities, such as better healthcare, education, and smooth running of businesses. We are creating a Kenya where no one is left behind with initiatives like this,” he affirmed.
“Today in Nambale, Busia County, commissioned Kinjavi Village Electrification Project connecting 192 households, part of our wider programme that will connect over 20,000 households in the county to power at a cost of KSh1 billion,” said President Ruto.
The sentiments which were supported by Mary Emase, MP for Teso South, underlined how crucial it is to increase energy access in order to promote regional development. In order to guarantee that the program’s advantages reach even the most isolated places, she promised to use a portion of the NG-CDF funding to build electrical connections to Teso South’s schools, health facilities, and underprivileged villages. “Access to energy is a prerequisite for sustained growth. With NG-CDF funding, I’m committed to expanding this program so that more households may take advantage of electrical connectivity. In addition to empowering our communities, this will open up a number of options,” Emase said.
While unveiling the project, President Ruto pointed out that relative growth in the economy of a nation is directly related to the investment in infrastructure, and in particular energy infrastructure. “This project is part of our broader vision to ensure that every Kenyan, regardless of their location, can access reliable and affordable electricity. This initiative will uplift the living standards of thousands of households here in Busia,” he said.
The launch of Phase 4 in Busia County emphasizes the government’s commitment to enhancing energy infrastructure across the nation. The project is anticipated to improve living standards, stimulate local economies, and bridge the rural-urban development gap. The completion of this phase is anticipated to significantly address energy shortages in Busia County, setting a precedent for similar initiatives across the country.
According to President Ruto, this project is a critical step in ensuring equitable access to energy, fostering economic growth, and improving living standards in rural areas. Busia Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma praised the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, noting that the project would not only boost the county’s energy capacity but also empower communities to engage in income-generating activities. The completion of this phase is expected to make significant strides in addressing energy challenges within Busia County.