Wajir County is intensifying efforts to expand solar power generation, focusing on electrifying underserved and off-grid communities. The initiative, implemented through the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP), seeks to provide clean and dependable energy in regions where connecting to the national electricity grid is not practical.
KOSAP, financed by the World Bank and executed by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum in collaboration with Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), intends to foster sustainable energy options, enhance local economic opportunities, and improve service delivery in marginalized counties.
During a media training session in Wajir town focused on community engagement and media participation, Wajir KOSAP Project Officer Fahma Yussuf announced that the county will receive 25 mini-grid installations across Eldas, Wajir North, Tarbaj, Wajir West, Wajir South, and Wajir East sub-counties.
She further explained that the project will deploy standalone solar systems in residential homes and public facilities, including 23 dispensaries, alongside solar-powered water pumping systems for designated community boreholes.
“Previous delays due to land acquisition and compensation matters in certain areas have now been largely resolved,” Fahma stated. “Local communities have gained from development initiatives worth up to Sh1 million across water, healthcare, and irrigation sectors,” she added.
The journalist workshop emphasized public education, consumer understanding, and media’s role in encouraging community involvement under the ‘Kawi Safi Mashinani’ initiative.
Anthony Mugo, a communications specialist from the Ministry of Energy, highlighted that the project will advance service provision and economic development in off-grid regions.
“Consistent electricity supply will strengthen healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and small enterprises,” Mugo explained.
Commenced in 2019, the program encompasses 14 disadvantaged counties, such as Wajir, Garissa, Mandera, Turkana, Marsabit, Samburu, Isiolo, West Pokot, Narok, Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, Tana River, and Taita Taveta.
On a national scale, the initiative aims to provide standalone solar systems to 250,000 households and clean cooking solutions to 60,000 households. It will also establish 114 mini-grids to supply electricity to approximately 50,000 households.
Furthermore, 523 public institutions, comprising schools, healthcare centers, and government offices, will receive solar power installations, while 316 diesel-operated boreholes will transition to solar-powered systems.