The government has rolled out a solar mini-grid programme aimed at expanding electricity access to residents living in remote and off-grid parts of Isiolo County as part of efforts to promote clean and affordable energy across the country.
The first phase of the programme was launched at Kipsing in Oldonyiro Sub-County, where more than 2,400 residents are expected to benefit from reliable electricity supply for the first time.
The project was commissioned by the Principal Secretary in the State Department for Energy, Alex Wachira, who said the national government has allocated Sh9.6 billion for the construction of 114 solar mini-grids in 14 counties.
Wachira said the initiative is intended to bridge the electricity access gap in isolated regions that remain outside the national grid network, noting that the programme would improve livelihoods and stimulate economic growth in marginalized areas.
The PS added that households in the targeted areas will only be required to pay Sh1,000 for electricity connections to enable more families access affordable power.
“This programme is aimed at ensuring that communities living in remote areas are not left behind in accessing electricity and economic opportunities associated with reliable power supply,” he said.
Ibrahim Hassan Guyo said the County Government would support vulnerable families unable to raise the connection fees under the six mini-grid projects planned within Isiolo County.
Isiolo Woman Representative Mumina Bonaya welcomed the project, describing it as transformative for residents who had waited for years to access electricity.
She said the project would improve business activities, enhance learning opportunities for children and boost security within the affected communities.
Residents expressed optimism that the programme would create employment opportunities for youth and women while improving living standards in the area.
One of the residents, Christine Lina, said electricity would help local traders expand businesses that depend on power supply while also improving security through street lighting.
Another resident, Joseph Lepakio, observed that residents would no longer struggle to charge mobile phones, which has been a major challenge in the area for years.
Gitule Lemantile said children would now have an opportunity to study during evening hours, while Nicholas Lemojo noted that the project would uplift living conditions and stimulate local commerce.
The solar mini-grid initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to increase access to sustainable and affordable energy among rural communities across the country.
By David Nduro
