In a significant move towards electrification, President William Ruto reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding access to reliable and affordable electricity across the country. Speaking at the contract signing ceremony for improved access to electricity through mini-grids and stand-alone solar systems under the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP) on February 19, 2025, the President emphasized the government’s transformative initiatives in the energy sector.
While urban centers and major transport corridors have seen significant advancements in electrification, vast rural areas remain in darkness. Recognizing this gap, the government, in collaboration with the World Bank, is spearheading the KOSAP initiative to provide cost-effective solar power solutions to off-grid communities.
“This initiative is about more than just power; it is about transformation,” President Ruto stated. “Electricity in health facilities will ensure the safe storage of vaccines and essential medicines. Schools will benefit from longer study hours and improved learning environments. Businesses and households will see new economic opportunities, supporting micro-enterprises and job creation.”
Through the Last Mile Connectivity Programme under Kenya Power, 1.2 million customers have already been connected to the grid, with an additional 460,000 set to benefit by 2026. The Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) has connected 63,000 out of 93,000 identified public facilities, including 22,900 public primary schools. In the 2023/24 financial year alone, 1,071 public facility projects were completed, with another 1,450 currently underway in 2024/25.
Beyond access expansion, President Ruto underscored Kenya’s commitment to a 100% clean energy grid by 2030. Diesel-powered stations are being hybridized with solar PV systems, including an additional 8MW solar installation in Wajir County. A major shift is also taking place in Lodwar, where Kenya Power’s diesel power plant is being phased out in favor of an extended national grid. This ambitious project involves the construction of 100km of 66kV power lines and a substation at a cost of KSh900 million.
“These projects are clear statements of intent,” the President affirmed. “We are cutting our reliance on costly and polluting diesel power, reducing energy costs, and strengthening our climate commitments while ensuring broader electricity access. We will not rest until every household, school, business, and health facility in Kenya has reliable and affordable electricity.”
As contractors sign the agreements for these transformative projects, President Ruto called for timely, high-quality, and integrity-driven implementation. He also urged leaders, including governors, MPs, and community representatives, to support the success of these projects, ensuring tangible benefits reach every Kenyan household and enterprise
