Gov't allocates Ksh.1.5 billion for Nandi County electrification project

Speaking during the commissioning of electrification projects in Chemichemi and Samoo villages in Chesumei Constituency, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), Dr Rose Mkalama, said the corporation targets to connect approximately 6,000 households to electricity over the next year.

Dr Mkalama, who was accompanied by Chesumei MP Paul Kibichiy Biego, emphasized the transformative power of electricity, urging residents to use the energy to improve their livelihoods.

She noted that 188 households in Chemichemi and Samoo villages have already been connected at no cost to residents, thanks to funding from the national government.

Dr Mkalama further challenged local leaders to enter into Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with REREC under the “Shilling for Shilling” fund. Through this initiative, Members of Parliament can contribute up to Ksh.5 million from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), while governors can contribute through county government allocations. REREC then matches the amount, effectively doubling the funds available for electrification projects.

"The leaders have the freedom to identify and prioritize the projects to be implemented by REREC," she added.

MP Paul Kibichiy lauded the government for its continued commitment to delivering on its development agenda, highlighting the increased access to electricity in rural areas. He urged residents to protect power infrastructure from vandalism, warning that such acts could plunge communities back into darkness.

Kibichiy also encouraged locals to leverage electricity to boost efficiency in tea production — the county's major economic activity — and to explore opportunities in value addition for greater income generation.

REREC is also commissioning new electrification projects in Taleltany and Kiborgok villages in Emgwen Constituency, where an additional 139 households are set to be connected.