The Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi, has said that the government will continue to pursue a development-driven approach to empower Kenyans at the grassroots level.
Speaking during an empowerment forum at Rongo ASK Grounds, Wandayi stated that the government was committed to championing development to steer economic growth, as well as empowering youth and women through financial support.
He disclosed that in the 2024/25 financial year, Migori County was allocated Sh1.8 billion for the last mile electricity connectivity, with Rongo Sub County benefiting from Sh190 million to connect 2,000 homesteads to the national grid.
The CS noted that the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum supports the sustainable growth of Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the provision of affordable grid electricity under the last mile programme managed by Kenya Power Company and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC).
Wandayi further explained that while Kenyans have a right to picket, the government would not allow destruction of property, attacks on government premises or any havoc to deprive other Kenyans of their hard-earned living.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa echoed similar sentiments and called for support for the conclave dialogue that was proposed by Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, urging both government and opposition leaders to hold a high-level, closed-door discussion to address the country’s growing challenges.
Ichung’wa stressed the need for sober and structured conversations on issues such as the high cost of living, youth-led protests, governance reforms, and national unity.
He emphasised that a private, focused dialogue would offer a more productive environment, free from public grandstanding, which he said has increasingly been witnessed from opposition leaders.
Migori Governor Dr. Ochilo Ayacko said that his administration had allocated Sh54 million in the 2024/25 financial year to empower women, youth and disabled groups.
The Governor said that the empowerment initiative and thriving SMEs are key drivers of sustainable growth and prosperity for the Kenyan citizens.
Ayacko noted that both the county and national governments share the commitment to economic inclusion, job creation, and uplifting local communities to generate wealth for the country.
He noted that he will continue to engage with local leaders and the national government to ensure that Migori residents are economically empowered.
Others present included President William Ruto’s Aide Farouk Kibet, National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro, among other Migori county leaders.
By Makokha Khaoya
