Nyamira County is set to experience a significant transformation following the commissioning of a Ksh 620 million rural electrification project by the national government. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum in collaboration with the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Cooperation (REREC), aims to provide affordable electricity to rural households, businesses, and shopping centers.
Speaking during the launch, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi emphasized the project’s role in bridging the electricity access gap in remote areas. He highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable power distribution across the country, with a particular focus on underserved communities.
“The large population of residents in Nyamira County reside in rural settings and have not had the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of rural electrification. As a ministry, we have strategized and laid down mechanisms to supply power to all remote parts of this country. We shall ensure we fulfill this mandate without favoring particular areas or discriminating against any, to improve the lives of all Kenyans, especially those in rural areas,” said Wandayi.
The rural electrification project is expected to bring multiple economic and social benefits to Nyamira County. Access to electricity will enable businesses to expand, leading to job creation and increased economic activities. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including welding shops, cybercafés, and retail outlets, will significantly benefit from a reliable power supply.
In addition, the project will enhance education by providing students in rural areas with the opportunity to study under proper lighting conditions. Schools will also be able to integrate digital learning, improving the quality of education in the region. Healthcare services will benefit as well, with hospitals and dispensaries gaining access to reliable power, which is essential for running medical equipment and storing vaccines.
The launch of this project comes at a crucial time when the government is accelerating efforts to meet its rural electrification targets under Vision 2030. With the rising demand for electricity in rural Kenya, timely execution and proper management of the project will be key to ensuring its success.
The residents of Nyamira County have welcomed the initiative with optimism, viewing it as a game-changer that will improve their quality of life and unlock new opportunities for growth and development. As implementation begins, all eyes will be on the Ministry of Energy and REREC to ensure the timely and efficient completion of the project.
