Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has commissioned the Gatarwa Last Mile Electricity Supply Project in Kirinyaga Central Constituency, reaffirming the government’s commitment to achieving universal electricity access across Kenya within the next few years.
Speaking during the launch on Wednesday, Kindiki said the country has made significant strides in expanding electricity connectivity, noting that over 1.3 million households have been connected to power since September 2022.
“We have connected 1.3 million households to electricity across the country since September 2022, and we are firmly on course to achieve universal access for all homes and businesses within the next three to four years,” he said.
Expanding access in Kirinyaga
The Gatarwa project, valued at KSh9.5 million, will connect 165 households to electricity and is part of a broader rollout of 27 last-mile connectivity projects within Kirinyaga Central Constituency.
Kindiki emphasized that such projects are critical in bridging the electricity gap in rural areas and boosting economic opportunities at the grassroots level.
“This Gatarwa Last Mile Electricity Supply Project will connect 165 households and is one of 27 similar projects underway in this constituency to ensure no home is left behind,” he said.
Millions invested to boost connections
The Deputy President revealed that the government has already disbursed KSh440 million in Kirinyaga County alone to connect an additional 7,500 consumers to the national grid.
“In Kirinyaga County, we have invested KSh440 million to connect 7,500 more consumers to electricity, underscoring our commitment to equitable development,” Kindiki stated.
He added that expanding electricity access remains a cornerstone of the government’s broader plan to modernize the economy and improve livelihoods.
“Electricity connectivity is a key pillar in the modernization of our economy, enabling businesses to grow and improving the quality of life for our people,” he noted.
Leaders rally behind development agenda
The commissioning ceremony was attended by Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Deputy Governor David Githanda, Kirinyaga Central MP Joseph Gitari, Nandi Woman Representative Cynthia Muge, and Members of the County Assembly led by Speaker Muteti Murimi.
Leaders present lauded the initiative, saying it will spur local economic growth, enhance education, and improve access to essential services in the region.
A step closer to universal power access
Kindiki reiterated that the government remains focused on ensuring every Kenyan household and business is connected to electricity, describing the ongoing last-mile projects as a crucial step toward inclusive national development.
“Our goal is clear — universal electricity access for every Kenyan home and business. We are closer than ever to achieving it,” he said.
