Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira has called on security agencies to intensify efforts in tackling the growing menace of electricity vandalism, warning that it is sabotaging the economy, disrupting essential services, and endangering communities.
Speaking at Kandutura Village in Laikipia North Constituency during the commissioning of a rural electrification project by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), Mr. Wachira stressed the need to protect critical infrastructure, especially power transformers, from criminal elements. He was accompanied by Tourism PS Sylvia Museiya and area MP Sarah Korere.
The Energy PS also revealed that the government is considering reviving a stalled high-voltage power transmission and substation development project, which was halted following the cancellation of a $736.6 million (Ksh.95 billion) deal between Adani Energy Solutions and the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (Ketraco). The project had been designed to boost the reliability of Kenya’s electricity supply and address persistent power outages.
Wachira said the government plans to reinitiate the transmission project through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to ensure its completion. He further announced plans to generate geothermal power from Menengai in Nakuru County and to construct new substations in Ol-Kalou, Nyandarua County, and Rumuruti, Laikipia County, to enhance electricity supply in the region.
The PS reiterated that safeguarding power infrastructure was essential for the success of these initiatives and the country’s overall economic stability.
Written By Rodney Mbua
