Lodwar, Turkana County| Residents of Lodwar can finally breathe a sigh of relief after months of persistent power outages and rationing, following the installation of two new generators by the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC).
The generators, officially commissioned on Thursday, mark the end of prolonged electricity shortages that had severely disrupted businesses, hospital operations, and daily life.
The installation was witnessed by Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, County Commissioner Julius Kavita, Woman Representative Cecilia Ishuu, and officials from KPLC.
Businesses, Hospitals Hit Hard by Power Shortages
The power crisis in Lodwar had reached a tipping point in September when frustrated traders stormed the local Kenya Power offices, demanding answers over the frequent and extended blackouts.
The business community also sought intervention from the Turkana County Commissioner’s office, citing heavy financial losses, particularly for businesses dealing with perishable goods such as fresh produce and dairy products.
Governor Lomorukai acknowledged the severe impact of the power crisis, stating that unreliable electricity supply had forced many businesses and institutions to seek alternative energy sources.
“Our people have suffered immensely. Businesses have lost stock, hospitals have struggled to operate, and even simple daily activities have been disrupted,” he lamented.
The Governor emphasized the urgent need to connect Turkana County to the National Grid to prevent future crises and ensure a stable electricity supply.
He further thanked President William Ruto for honoring his commitment to replace the faulty generators that had caused months of suffering.
Call for Expanded Power Connectivity
Apart from Lodwar, other areas in Turkana County, such as Kalokol, remain in dire need of electricity.
The Governor urged KPLC to extend power supply to these regions, particularly the fishing community in Kalokol, which relies on refrigeration to preserve fish for sale.
“Power connectivity is essential for economic growth. Our fishing industry in Kalokol needs a reliable power supply to boost productivity and reduce post-harvest losses,” he added.
Woman Representative Cecilia Ishuu echoed these sentiments, thanking the Ministry of Energy for fulfilling its pledge to address the crisis.
Long-Term Power Solutions in the Works
As a long-term solution, KPLC has outlined plans to strengthen the region’s power infrastructure.
The company intends to invest KSh 1.03 billion in constructing a 100 km, 66 kV power line from Lokichar to Lodwar, along with a new substation in Lodwar.
KPLC’s Lodwar manager, Mary Kirui, assured residents that the company is committed to both short-term and long-term solutions to prevent further disruptions.
“We understand the challenges our customers have faced, and we are working tirelessly to ensure a more stable and sustainable power supply,” she said.
With the installation of the new generators, Lodwar’s business community, hospitals, and households are now hopeful for a more reliable power supply, marking a significant step towards improved economic and social stability in the region.
Share This Post