“No More Darkness!”—Govt Unveils Plan to Connect One Million Kenyans to Power Within Two Years
In a bold move to light up rural Kenya, the government has announced plans to connect over one million households to electricity by 2027. The ambitious rollout, part of the Last Mile Connectivity Project, promises to transform lives in villages long forgotten by development.
“Electricity for All”—Ruto Vows Free Connections
President William Ruto assured Kenyans that every household, regardless of structure, will receive electricity without upfront payment.
“Every household will get electricity for free,” Ruto declared. “Whether you live in a mud house or iron-sheet house, you will connect electricity to your house for free,” he added.
He emphasized that families will only pay monthly bills, making power accessible to even the poorest homes.
“We’re Investing in the Future”—KPLC Boss Defends Rural Expansion
Kenya Power Managing Director Joseph Siror defended the decision to extend electricity to remote areas, even those with low initial consumption.
“You may think the connection isn’t worth it now,” Siror said. “But come back in three years, and you’ll be amazed,” he added.
He described the initiative as a “seed investment” that sparks growth and industrial development.
“You’re investing not in what you see, but in what will come,” Siror explained.
Kenya Power technician fixing lines on a pole on February 15, 2023.
“Pay Slowly, Live Better”—Flexible Payment Model Eases Burden
The program, backed by the African Development Bank and the World Bank, charges Ksh15,000 per connection. However, families don’t pay upfront. Instead, 50% of each token purchase goes toward repaying the cost.
“This model allows families to enjoy power while paying gradually,” a KPLC official noted.
This approach has already helped connect over 1.3 million homes in the past three years.
“Phase VI Is Here”—Govt Targets 150,001 New Connections
In the latest phase, the government will connect 150,001 new homes, schools, and businesses across 45 counties—excluding Nairobi and Mombasa.
“We’re reinforcing the grid to handle new demand,” a REREC engineer confirmed.
Plans include building 13 substations, 2,871 km of 33 kV lines, and 6,798 km of distribution infrastructure.
“This expansion will uplift living standards and boost local economies,” the engineer added.
President William Ruto launching a Last Mile Connectivity Project in Nambale, Busia County, January 2025
As the rollout begins, hope is spreading across Kenya’s most remote corners.
“We’ve waited long enough. Now, our children can study at night,” said a grateful resident.
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“No More Darkness!”—Govt Unveils Plan to Connect One Million Kenyans to Power Within Two Years
