Despite ongoing government efforts, many off-grid communities in Kenya continue to struggle without reliable electricity.
In Muhoroni Sub-County, Kisumu County, this challenge is being addressed through a new partnership between the county government, BLUETTI, and UN-Habitat.
The initiative, known as the Lighting an African Family Program, has donated 300 solar lighting and storage kits to households in the impoverished estates of Shauri Moyo and Shauri Yako.
The project has already benefited over 2,000 residents who previously relied on kerosene lamps or lived in darkness.
Speaking during the handover, Aloice Ager, Chief of Staff and Coordinator for Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation, said the programme seeks to uplift underprivileged families, especially children from disadvantaged households.
“These 300 solar kits will reduce energy costs and brighten lives, particularly for women-led households,” Ager noted.
The kits include battery packs, solar panels, and light bulbs, enabling homes to access clean and reliable energy.
Organisers say the programme will also reduce over 337 tonnes of carbon emissions in the next five years.
Beyond providing light, the project is expected to improve education outcomes, allowing children to study at night and enhance safety in homes.
“Children can now study after sunset, families will live in well-lit homes, no longer fearing the darkness and by this, we will cut over 337 tonnes of carbon emissions in the next five years,” he added.
Muhoroni continues to face wider development challenges, including poor roads, lack of clean water, and an unreliable power supply.
However, initiatives like this aim to empower off-grid communities, improve quality of life, and promote renewable energy adoption.
The Lighting an African Family Program targets over one million families across Africa by 2026.
Alongside Kenya, the charity is also undertaken in Nigeria, Malawi, Chad, Tanzania, and other countries worldwide.
By Robert Ojwang’
