Sh36 Billion Allocated for Nationwide Electrification Under Last-Mile Connectivity Project
The Kenyan government has unveiled an ambitious plan to connect one million households to electricity within the next 20 months under the Last-Mile Connectivity Project (LMCP).
Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki announced that the government will invest Sh36 billion in the nationwide electrification initiative, which aims to improve access to electricity and enhance economic development.
Prof. Kindiki made the announcement during a development tour in Kieni, Nyeri County on Friday, where he emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring universal electricity access across the country.
He stated that Sh8.6 billion of the total allocation would be used to connect 115,000 households in nine counties within the Mount Kenya region.
Expansion of Electricity Access
Prof. Kindiki highlighted the government’s success in expanding electricity coverage over the past decade.
He noted that the number of Kenyans connected to electricity had grown from 2.7 million in 2013 to 9 million currently, and the administration is now focusing on connecting an additional one million households.
“As a government, we are aware that some areas in this country still lack electricity connections. Our goal is to ensure that every Kenyan household is linked to the National Grid,” said the DP.
To achieve this objective, the government is seeking additional funding to extend electricity connections to remote and underserved areas.
The initiative is expected to spur economic growth, enhance education, improve healthcare services, and boost overall livelihoods.
Infrastructure and Economic Growth
The Deputy President, who was accompanied by Principal Secretaries Alex Wachira (Energy), Eng. Joseph Mbugua (Roads and Transport), and Ann Wang’ombe (Gender and Affirmative Action), as well as elected leaders from the region, reiterated the government’s focus on accelerating infrastructure development.
He pointed out that Kenya’s economy had stabilized, enabling the government to invest heavily in essential sectors such as road expansion, water access, electricity connectivity, and youth employment.
“Right now, because the economy is stable, we have enough funds. We want to ensure that in the next three years, we address key developmental issues, ensuring that every Kenyan benefits from a better economy,” he said.
Launch of New Electrification Projects
During the visit, Prof. Kindiki commissioned a Sh733 million Last-Mile Connectivity Project in Kieni, targeting areas such as Aguthi, Mbogo-ini, Gikamba, and Murungaru.
The project, which is being implemented by Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), aims to connect 10,903 households to electricity.
Additionally, he launched another Sh164 million electrification project that will provide power to 1,163 beneficiaries, further demonstrating the government’s resolve to enhance access to electricity in rural and peri-urban areas.
A Brighter Future for Kenyans
The Last-Mile Connectivity Project is expected to transform lives, particularly in rural communities where access to electricity has been limited.
By providing affordable power connections, the government hopes to stimulate local businesses, support digital learning in schools, improve healthcare services, and create new employment opportunities.
As the government intensifies its efforts to ensure full electrification, millions of Kenyans stand to benefit from an improved quality of life, enhanced economic opportunities, and greater social development.
Share This Post