Energy

In a major boost to rural electrification, the Government of Makueni County in collaboration with the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), has launched a Sh4.5 million solar-powered high mast lighting project at Utangwa Market in Kithungo/Kitundu Ward.

The county government and REREC officially handed over the project site to the contractor on Monday, marking the start of the installation. The modern solar-powered lighting system is expected to enhance night-time visibility, improve security, and stimulate business activity in and around the market.

Speaking during the handover, county officials noted that the project aligns with ongoing efforts to promote renewable energy and drive economic growth in rural areas.

Once completed, the high mast system is expected to transform Utangwa Market into a safer and more vibrant commercial hub, extending business hours and boosting local trade.

A similar Sh4.5 million project was also launched at Kasikeu, Sultan Hamud, to illuminate the Masumba area.

The solar projects are expected to save the government millions of shillings in electricity costs.

Makueni residents have expressed joy and hope as Government of Makueni County in partnership with REREC rolls out rural electrification projects worth Sh80 million across 12 wards in all six sub-counties. The projects, will connect 617 households and public institutions to electricity.

During a launch gathering in Makindu, residents said electricity access will transform their lives by powering homes, schools, and small businesses. Similar excitement was witnessed in Nyunzu, Muvau/Kikumini Ward, where a project worth Sh9.3 million was unveiled.

County Executive for Infrastructure, Roads, and Energy Eng. Peter Mumo said the initiative fulfills Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.’s pledge to expand energy access and drive local development.

Launches have so far been conducted in Masongaleni and Kukumbulyu South.

Other wards lined up for launch include Kithungo/Kitundu, Kasikeu, Kako/Waia, Kalawa,Ukia,

Kee, and Tulimani wards.

Through the electrification drive, Makueni aims to stimulate business and improve social-economic growth.

Makueni County has launched an ambitious new energy policy that aims to deliver clean, affordable, and reliable power to homes, schools, health centers, and business across its six sub-counties, cementing its place as a national leader in Kenya’s green energy transition.

Unveiled Tuesday in Wote by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr., the Energy Policy 2025 builds on a string of successful projects, including 44 solar installations, expanded electricity grid access, and the county’s first clean cooking pilot.

The policy follows the Makueni County Energy Plan 2023–2032, already delivering impact across health, water, agriculture, trade, and gender sectors. In FY 2024/25 alone, the county invested KES 99.38 million in solar energy.

Over 60 market centers have been fitted with solar streetlights, while five towns now boast high-mast floodlights, which has enhanced security and extended trading hours.

The new policy was developed in collaboration with UK PACT, Strathmore University, World Resources Institute, and Just Energy Transition Africa.

The British High Commission to Kenya, through representative Dan Wilcox, called Makueni’s efforts “trailblazing.” Prof. Izael Da Silva of Strathmore University urged the national government to follow suit, calling energy access a driver of GDP growth.

Dr. Rebekah Shirley of the World Resources Institute praised Makueni for crafting energy solutions tailored to local needs.

The County Energy Directorate in collaboration with Strathmore University and the World Resources Institute, on Wednesday hosted a validation meeting for the draft Makueni Energy Policy.

The session brought together members of the County Executive Committee to review and strengthen the policy framework.

Anchored in the Energy Act 2019 and the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the policy is set to guide the county in planning, regulating and rolling out sustainable energy initiatives.

Its goal is to ensure all residents have access to modern energy that is sustainable, affordable, reliable and secure.

Present at the validation meeting were CECMs Eng. Peter Mumo (Transport and Energy), Japheth Mang’oka (Lands), Eng. John Kieti (Water), Dr. Sonia Nzilani (Trade), County Attorney Stanley Nthiwa and Chief Officer for Energy Eng. Naomi Nthambi.