Over 12,000 households connected to power in Kwale County under Sh1.4 billion project

Hussein Abdullahi-KNA

Over 12,707 households  have been connected to the national electricity grid through the Sh.1.4 billion last mile connectivity project in Kwale County.

This has unlocked new opportunities for economic growth for the residents.

This initiative will drive wealth creation and improve livelihoods across the coastal region by powering agribusiness and the blue economy.

The last mile connectivity project was commissioned by President William Ruto at Kiwegu Secondary School grounds in Vanga, Kwale County. 

President Ruto said the purpose of the project is to increase universal access to electricity for Kenyans households in rural areas.

He said the national government will focus on enhancing the country’s power infrastructure, improving grid reliability, and exploring innovative energy solutions to ensure the smooth development of the country.

The Head of State said the new development is expected to improve access to electricity, enhance economic activities, and contribute to the overall well-being of the communities in Kwale.

He said access to electricity promotes social well-being by improving services such as education, healthcare and security.

“The government is committed to ensuring that Kenyans especially those in rural areas are provided with electricity either by the national power grid or renewable power option such as solar power,” he said.

President Ruto said connecting more areas to the country’s national electricity grid will be a catalyst for the development of the counties.

Area Governor Fatuma Achani expressed happiness over the new project, noting that increased electricity access would stimulate economic growth, enhance education, and improve healthcare services in rural areas. 

She said the project will in the long run enhance agricultural productivity, support local enterprises, improve educational outcomes, and bolster healthcare services.

Achani reaffirmed her administration’s collaboration with the national government to ensure inclusive development for Kwale residents.

“This project marks a new chapter for Kwale. With more homes and businesses gaining access to power, our people will have better opportunities to thrive,” she said, and called on the residents to protect the project against vandals.

She asked the beneficiary communities to use electricity for income generating activities to improve their living standards and contribute towards national development.

The coastal county boss stated that access to electricity for households and businesses through the last mile connectivity will spur economic growth at the grassroots level.

Achani emphasized the significance of the project in fostering development and improving the standard of living in the benefiting communities.

According to her the project was a significant stride towards attaining the government’s goal of achieving universal access by the year 2030 besides meeting sustainable development goals.