Bungoma County has formed a strategic alliance with Kenya Commercial Bank Limited (KCB) to implement solar power solutions in public healthcare institutions.
This initiative seeks to reduce electricity expenses, enhance service quality, and improve healthcare reliability.
During the memorandum of understanding signing ceremony at the county headquarters on Thursday, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka stated that this partnership represents a significant achievement in the county’s mission to bolster healthcare services through sustainable and affordable energy options.
“The first phase will involve solar installations in at least 20 priority health facilities, comprising 10 sub-county hospitals and 10 high-volume health centers,” Lusaka explained.
The governor noted that local health facilities have long faced challenges with high electricity expenses, unstable grid power, and frequent blackouts that disrupt service provision.
He emphasized that the collaboration offers a practical and sustainable approach that ensures reliable power supply, improves patient care, and decreases operational expenses.
Lusaka mentioned that the project will directly serve over one million residents who rely on public healthcare facilities while maintaining consistent power for operating theaters, maternity wards, laboratories, and pharmacies.
He further described the initiative as a low-risk, high-impact investment that will strengthen the healthcare system, improve emergency response capabilities, and create a better working environment for healthcare professionals.
“These long-term financial savings will enable us to allocate resources to critical areas including medications, staffing, and medical equipment,” he added.
KCB Bank will provide up to 100 percent asset-based financing, conduct energy assessments, mobilize approved engineering and construction contractors, and ensure system maintenance and long-term support.
According to KCB Group Managing Director Anastacia Kimtai, the bank is honored to collaborate with Bungoma County in promoting green energy solutions for public service delivery.
She highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting sustainable development and climate-friendly investments.
“This project exemplifies how innovative financing can unlock clean energy solutions that generate both economic and social benefits,” stated Kimtai.
The KCB managing director added that the solar installations will not only reduce energy costs but also increase service reliability, particularly in vital areas such as maternal health, diagnostics, and emergency care.
Kimtai explained that powering health facilities with solar energy will guarantee continuous healthcare services while supporting Kenya’s climate action objectives.
She confirmed that the initial phase of the project is anticipated to be completed within 6 to 12 months.
“This will provide 24-hour dependable power, decreasing reliance on the national grid, lowering generator fuel expenses, and improving the functionality of medical equipment and cold-chain systems,” the KCB managing director concluded.