The Senate Standing Committee on Energy has toured Wajir County to assess its energy challenges, particularly the lack of connectivity to the national grid.

The Committee, chaired by Nyeri Senator Wamatinga Wahome, focused on the Last Mile connectivity program and discussed the progress and challenges facing the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) in its efforts to bring green energy to Wajir’s households and institutions.

Speaking during the inspection tour in Wajir, Senator Wahome expressed optimism about Wajir County’s efforts toward progressive energy initiatives, despite ongoing difficulties in electricity supply.

‘Our commitment is to engage with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Energy, to ensure that REREC and Kenya Power (KPLC) receive adequate budgetary allocations,’ said Wahome.

‘This is critical to expanding connectivity and improving the power supply across Wajir County. It’s urgent for us to explore public-private partnerships to connect Wajir to the nationa
l grid, which will drive industrialization and fulfill the government’s promise to bring electricity to all.’

Senator Ledama Ole Kina of Narok County echoed Wahome’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for sustained funding and candid discussions about energy infrastructure.

‘REREC has faced setbacks due to budget cuts, leaving them unable to complete vital projects. For instance, they initially planned to power a technical institution and surrounding homes but managed only one institution due to limited funds,’ said Ole Kina.

He noted that Wajir Town relies heavily on costly and outdated diesel generators, costing around Sh2.3 million per day, an approach he deemed unsustainable.

‘We’re spending 2.3 million shillings daily on fuel to electrify Wajir town, which is not sustainable. The solution is to connect Wajir County, alongside Garissa and Mandera, to the national grid. This is the only way to ensure lasting progress.’

Senator Mohamed Abass Sheikh of Wajir County underscored the critical need for stable
electricity for local schools, healthcare facilities, and businesses and vowed to advocate for additional funding and policy support upon returning to Nairobi.

‘We’ll knock on the doors of REREC and KPLC to push for reliable power solutions and grid connections for our county,’ he pledged.

Source: Kenya News Agency