The government, in partnership with the African Development Bank (ADB), has allocated Sh2.7 billion to connect 32,000 homesteads to electricity across Meru County.
Speaking during the official groundbreaking and flag-off ceremony for the last-mile connectivity project at Athiru Gaiti market, Kalamene Munyakiri and Ugoti villages in Igembe South, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to achieving universal electricity access for underserved communities.
The CS noted that the project aligns with President William Ruto’s agenda of inclusive and transformative socio-economic development.
He added that a Sh1.2 billion power substation currently under construction in Maua will further strengthen electricity supply and distribution in the region.
“These projects aim to provide clean, affordable, and reliable electricity to the said villages and the improved electricity access will boost business opportunities and create a better learning environment for students,” said Wandayi.
Additionally, the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) has allocated Sh304 million to connect 4,004 homesteads in Igembe South Sub-county, while Sh25.5 million has been set aside specifically for Kalamene and Munyakiri areas.
The latter project is expected to be completed within the next two and a half months and will benefit 382 families.
The CS assured residents that transformers previously removed would be replaced and that the region would not face power shortages once the projects are completed.
He also cautioned against illegal underground power connections, describing them as unsafe and dangerous.
While existing illegal connections will be regularised, he warned that anyone engaging in new illegal hookups will face arrest.
Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira echoed the CS’s remarks, saying the electrification projects will significantly improve livelihoods by enabling residents to participate in productive economic activities.
The electrification initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to achieve universal access to energy and ensure rural communities benefit from reliable power to drive development.
By Dickson Mwiti
