Over Sh10 Billion allocated for last mile electricity in Mt. Kenya Region

The government has allocated Sh 10.3 billion for the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Project in the Mt. Kenya region.

Speaking on Friday to residents of Matathia village of Thika East at Kilimambogo, Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira reaffirmed the government’s commitment to lighting up every corner of the country.

He noted that the funding is part of a broader Sh42 billion Last Mile Electricity Program launched by President Ruto to expand affordable power access to underserved communities.

"Electricity is not just about light—it’s about powering opportunities, the initiative will unlock business potential, enhance security, and drive development in areas such as Thika East and beyond,” Wachira said.

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Under this initiative, Kiambu County alone has been allocated Sh490 million, paving the way for hundreds of households and small businesses to be connected to the national grid.

The Principal Secretary stated that Kenyans will experience lower electricity tariffs this month—approximately 20 cents per kilowatt-hour—due to increased hydropower generation in recent weeks.

“The journey towards lower tariffs is a continuous one. We are focusing on expanding cheaper generation sources, increasing electricity imports from neighbouring countries, integrating more geothermal energy into the grid, and accelerating the development of small hydropower projects to help reduce overall generation costs.”

During a launch event at Matathia Village, the chief executive of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), Dr Rose Mkalama, called on residents to safeguard the newly installed transformers, often targets of vandalism.

She also cautioned the public against individuals posing as government agents and charging for electricity connections, stressing that the government provides the service free of charge.

The PS and the CEO also flagged off materials for the project, which will connect 71 households to the national grid as part of ongoing works by Rural Electrification & Renewable Energy Corporation to connect 562 Households in Mukunike, Kona mbaya, Maguguni and Kwa Mhindi villages in Thika town constituency.

Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a welcomed the development, describing it as transformative. She revealed that over 1,750 families in her constituency would directly benefit.

“This program is a game-changer for our youth and small traders. It will empower households and businesses to improve economically,” she said.

 Excited residents praised the government’s timely intervention, expressing optimism that access to electricity would improve their quality of life and open up new avenues for employment and entrepreneurship.

Among the beneficiaries who were connected to the grid for the first time included 89-year-old Hannah Njambi Ndung'u has access to electricity through the Rural Electrification Project, bringing power to her home in Matathia.

The Last Mile Connectivity Project remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s long-term development blueprint and a testament to the government’s resolve to empower grassroots communities through strategic infrastructure investments.