Residents of Tindiret Sub County in Nandi County are headed for a transformative shift in their daily lives following the commissioning of a Last Mile Electricity Connectivity project in the region.
The project, which was officially launched in Chemelil-Chemase Ward, was presided over by the Cabinet Secretary (CS) Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi, in the company of the area Member of Parliament, Julius Melly.
The rollout is expected to connect hundreds of households in previously underserved villages such as Kapchepkendi, Kibigori, Koisagat, Chemelil-Chemase, and the forest-edge communities near Tinderet Forest. These areas have historically lagged behind in terms of energy access, affecting education, healthcare delivery, economic activity, and general quality of life.
During the launch, the CS underscored the government’s resolve to extend reliable and affordable electricity to every corner of the country, with particular attention to rural and marginalized areas. He noted that electricity is not merely a source of light but a catalyst for development. According to him, the connection of power to these areas will unlock economic potential, enhance public service delivery, and reduce inequality in access to essential infrastructure.
He further stated that by lighting homes, energizing schools, and powering businesses, the project would stimulate growth and empower communities that had for years remained in the shadows of development. The move aligns with the government’s broader agenda of achieving universal electricity access by 2030, as envisioned in Kenya’s Vision 2030 development blueprint.
On his part, the MP described the project as a long-awaited milestone for the people of Tindiret. He noted that areas like Kiptenden, Kibwari, and Songhor-Soba had suffered for years due to lack of electricity, which had held back the region’s development.
With the new connections, he said, local schools such as Chemelil Primary and Koisagat Secondary would finally have power for lighting and learning technology, while health centers like Kibigori Dispensary and Koisagat Health Centre would be better equipped to offer critical services, including maternal care and emergency treatment.
Melly added that the local economy stood to benefit significantly. Small businesses in trading centres like Kapchepkendi and Chemelil would now be able to operate longer hours, use electrical equipment, and preserve perishable goods through refrigeration. He expressed gratitude to the national government and development partners for recognizing the needs of rural communities and taking tangible steps to address them.
Local residents welcomed the development with enthusiasm and hope. Jane Chepkemoi, a trader in Koisagat, shared her excitement, explaining that electricity would drastically cut operational costs and improve safety, especially at night. For families who have relied on kerosene lamps and costly diesel generators, the new connections offer a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable energy solution.
The initial phase of the project will see more than 700 households connected to the national grid, with plans to expand coverage to additional villages bordering Timboroa and the southern parts of Nandi County.
The project is being implemented in partnership with international donors under the Last Mile Connectivity Programme, which aims to ensure equitable distribution of energy infrastructure across the country.
By Sammy Mwibanda
