Wajir Town residents are set to see an end to months of power disruptions following the delivery of a new ENCOMM generator, which local officials say will significantly boost electricity supply in the county. Wajir East MP Aden Daud Mohamed confirmed on Monday that the generator, with a rated capacity of 1 megawatt and an effective output of 0.7 megawatts, is currently being installed. Once operational, it is expected to increase the town’s overall production capacity from 2.3MW to 3MW, providing much-needed relief to households, businesses, and health facilities previously affected by blackouts.
The move comes after repeated complaints from residents and traders over losses caused by erratic electricity supply. For many, the power outages disrupted daily life and hampered the operations of businesses reliant on refrigeration and other electric equipment. Health facilities also reported interruptions in service delivery due to unreliable power. The MP noted that a second generator of similar capacity is expected before the end of the month, which, combined with the first, will further stabilize electricity provision. Additionally, plans are in progress for a long-term solution through an 8MW solar hybrid system combining solar PV and battery storage, aimed at ensuring sustainable energy supply across the county.
Residents welcomed the development with cautious optimism, noting the relief it brings while urging continued efforts toward a permanent solution. Local businessman Mohamed Hussein said the new generator will help prevent spoilage of perishable goods and reduce equipment breakdowns, while trader Ambia Hussei expressed hope that the move signals a more reliable future for businesses in Wajir. Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, in coordination with the Ministry of Energy, has emphasized that these efforts form part of a broader plan to secure long-term, sustainable electricity, ultimately enhancing socio-economic activities and improving living standards for the county’s residents.