President William Ruto has launched electricity projects worth KSh2.512 billion in Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties.
The initiative aims to connect 12,304 households to electricity. It also supports the government’s plan to expand power access in rural areas.
During his North Rift tour, Ruto flagged off materials for the projects. The Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) will implement 217 projects across the two counties.
Elgeyo Marakwet Receives KSh1.6 Billion
Elgeyo Marakwet will receive the largest share of the investment.
REREC will implement 135 electricity projects in the county. The projects target 8,975 households, and the government has allocated KSh1.6 billion for the work.
Meanwhile, Baringo County will benefit from 82 projects. The government has set aside KSh912 million to connect 3,329 households.
Combined, the two counties will receive 217 projects targeting more than 12,000 households.
Wandayi Reports Growth in Electricity Connections
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi accompanied Ruto during the regional tour.
Wandayi said the government had connected 1.5 million households to electricity nationwide over the past four years.
He described the figure as significant progress since the current administration took office in 2022.
The latest investment aims to bring electricity to underserved communities. Once REREC completes the work, the targeted households can benefit from reliable power.
Electricity Drive Expected to Support Businesses
The new connections could create opportunities for small businesses in rural areas.
For example, shop owners, barbers and welders can use electricity to run equipment and serve more customers.
Reliable power can also help businesses extend their operating hours. Furthermore, it can improve productivity and reduce reliance on alternative energy sources.
At home, families will enjoy better lighting. Students can also study more comfortably after dark.
Government Pushes to Expand Rural Electricity Access
The initiative forms part of the government’s wider plan to expand electricity access and support rural economic growth.
REREC will oversee the projects and ensure that the allocated funds deliver the planned infrastructure and household connections.
After completing the 217 projects, the corporation aims to connect more families in Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo to the national electricity network.
The government also expects better power access to support small businesses and create new economic opportunities across the North Rift region.
