Homa Bay County is set for a major economic boost following a Sh2.1 billion allocation by the national government to expand electricity access to about 20,000 households under the Rural Electrification Project.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the project aims to correct long-standing development disparities by extending power to communities that have remained off-grid for decades, despite consistently contributing to national coffers via taxes.
Wandayi said the funding marks the first time the national government has committed such a large amount of funds for electrification in the county especially to expand power connectivity to underserved areas, describing it as a major milestone in redressing historical development imbalances.
“Let me remind you that for the first time in history, the national government under the leadership of President William Ruto, through the National Assembly, has allocated Sh2.1 billion to connect electricity in Homa Bay. This is money that has never been seen in this area before, yet the people of this county have continued to pay taxes like all other Kenyans,” Wandayi said.
Speaking at Wahambla Village in Homa Bay Town Constituency during the launch of power line construction, Wandayi described electricity as a key driver of development, noting that access to power would unlock new business opportunities, enhance security and improve the overall quality of life for residents across the county.
“Electricity is not just about lighting homes. It is about creating opportunities, supporting small businesses, improving security and uplifting the standard of living for our people,” he said.
The CS explained that while the impact may not be immediate, residents should expect visible changes within a year.
“You cannot chase away darkness in one day or one week, but after one year, the face of Homa Bay will change through development and electricity,” he stated.
As part of the project, Homa Bay Sub-County has been allocated Sh150 million to connect approximately 2,000 households to the national grid. Wandayi also inspected the ongoing implementation of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation’s (REREC) Last Mile Connectivity Project.
He emphasized that the electrification drive is aligned with the government’s commitment to achieve universal electricity access and inclusive growth, particularly in historically marginalized regions.
Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma and County Woman Representative Joyce Osogo Bensouda praised the initiative, reiterating that reliable electricity would enhance security, stimulate local enterprises and create employment opportunities for the youth.
The leaders appealed to residents to safeguard electricity infrastructure, warning that vandalism could slow down development and deny communities the benefits of the project.
By Sitna Omar
