Today, several areas in Kenya are set to experience planned power outages as part of the Kenya Power and Lighting Company’s (KPLC) scheduled maintenance. This power interruption is expected to last from 9 am to 5 pm and will affect various parts of Nairobi, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, and Kakamega counties. The maintenance work is crucial for ensuring the reliability and stability of the power supply network. Here’s a detailed look at the affected areas and the implications for residents and businesses.
Nairobi County:
In Nairobi, the scheduled power interruption will impact a number of areas including:
- Taj Mall
- North Airport Road
- Amiran Kenya
- G4S Security
- Tononoka Paper Ltd
- Caribbean Food Court Embakasi
- Jesus Celebration Centre Church
- Kenya Fresh Produce Exporters
- Fineveg Trading Company
- Green Forests Foods
- DK Engineering
- Even Business Park
- Bolore
- Dakawou Transport Ltd
- Embakasi Village Crafts
- Duldul Godowns
- Farm Engineering Industries
- Argot Solutions
- Red Commercial Complex
- Cabanas Stage and adjacent customers
Additionally, Syokimau Railway Station and Mombasa Road will also be affected. Residents and businesses in these areas should plan accordingly to mitigate the impact of the power outage. Critical operations relying on uninterrupted power should ensure they have alternative power sources like generators or UPS systems in place.
Nakuru County:
In Nakuru, the entire Central Business District (CBD) is expected to be affected, along with prominent landmarks and establishments:
- Kenyatta Avenue
- Moi Road
- Westside Mall
- Polo Center
- Waterbuck Hotel
- Merica Hotel
- CK Patel
- Bontana Hotel
- Cathy Hotel
- Naivas Supermarkets
- Woolmatt Supermarkets
- Clean Shelf Supermarkets
- Top Market
- Kanini Market
- Biashara Center
- Gilani Supermarket
- Oleken Hotel
- Mt. Kenya University
- Club Lane
- Avenue Suit Hotel
- Njoro Sub County Hospital and adjacent customers
The disruption in Nakuru could significantly impact both businesses and residents. Essential services such as supermarkets, hotels, and hospitals will need to prepare for the outage to ensure minimal disruption to their operations.
Uasin Gishu County:
In Uasin Gishu, the power interruption will affect:
- Komora Centre
- Equity Bank
- Eldobliss
- Naivas Sokoni and adjacent customers
This outage could disrupt banking services, retail operations, and daily activities for residents. As with other counties, businesses and individuals should take necessary precautions to manage the period without power.
Kakamega County:
In Kakamega, the areas listed for the power interruption include:
- Sabatia Market
- Bukura
- Lunza Ibokolo
- Major Mwale
- Shirunyire
- Eshitari
- Eshimkoko
- Ematawa Market
- Njenga
- Shibanga and adjacent customers
Residents and businesses in these areas should prepare for the outage by ensuring they have backup power solutions and plan their day’s activities accordingly.
Preparing for the Outage:
KPLC advises all affected customers to prepare adequately for the power interruption. Here are some tips to help you manage the outage:
- Backup Power: If possible, have a generator or an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) ready to keep essential appliances and devices running.
- Charge Devices: Ensure all your electronic devices are fully charged before the outage.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule tasks that require electricity for times outside the outage window.
- Stay Informed: Keep track of updates from KPLC regarding the outage and any changes to the schedule.
Conclusion:
While power interruptions can be inconvenient, they are necessary for the maintenance and improvement of the power infrastructure. KPLC’s planned maintenance is crucial for ensuring a stable and reliable power supply in the future. By preparing adequately, residents and businesses in Nairobi, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, and Kakamega can minimize the impact of the outage and continue with their activities with minimal disruption.