The Government will spend Sh2.6 billion to expedite ongoing electricity projects under the Last Mile Connectivity Programme, in a move expected to boost access to power in rural areas and support small businesses across Narok County.
Speaking in Narok East Sub-county during a meeting with women groups preparing for a forthcoming fundraiser to be presided over by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, State Department for Energy Principal Secretary (PS) Alex Wachira said that 15,000 households are set to benefit from the allocation, adding that part of it, Sh269 million, has been earmarked for electricity connectivity projects in Narok East.
Wachira assured residents that the persistent electricity challenges affecting the area will soon be addressed through the ongoing Last Mile Connectivity Programme, which seeks to connect more households and trading centres to the national grid.
He noted that a reliable electricity supply will empower residents, especially women and youth groups, to venture into income-generating activities and expand their businesses.
“The government is committed to ensuring every Kenyan accesses affordable and reliable electricity. This will help improve livelihoods and create more economic opportunities for wananchi,” said Wachira.
Residents, through Narok East Member of Parliament Ken Aramat, raised concerns over frequent power outages in the area, complaining the scenario has negatively affected businesses and household activities.
Aramat, who also serves as the Vice Chairperson of the National Assembly Energy Committee, said the area urgently requires a mini sub-station to stabilize electricity supply and meet the growing demand for power.
He observed that unreliable electricity has become a major challenge for traders and institutions that depend on a steady power supply.
In response, Wachira assured residents that technical inspections will soon be conducted to assess the feasibility of establishing the sub-station and other interventions aimed at improving electricity distribution in the area.
The Last Mile Connectivity Programme is a government initiative aimed at increasing electricity access by extending low-voltage networks to homes and businesses located near existing transformers.
The programme has significantly improved rural electrification in many parts of the country, enabling thousands of households to access power at subsidised costs.
As the country gradually moves closer to the next general election, Aramat also calls on residents to maintain peace and reject leaders promoting division along tribal lines.
He warned against politicians inciting communities, saying such actions threaten national unity and peaceful coexistence.
“We should not entertain leaders who seek to divide us through tribal politics. Every Kenyan has a right to live and conduct business peacefully wherever they choose to,” said Aramat.
He urged residents to report individuals spreading hate and incitement to security agencies, noting that divisive politics often fuel violence.
The legislator further encouraged women groups to invest in sustainable business ventures that can improve household incomes and uplift the community economically.
His sentiments was echoed by nominated Member of Parliament Sabina Chege, who emphasized the importance of peace in achieving development and economic growth.
Ms Chege urged women to remain united and support initiatives aimed at transforming their livelihoods, saying peaceful coexistence remains a key pillar in driving the development agenda forward.
By Emily Kadzo
