Baringo: Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki has announced plans to connect at least 8,000 households in Baringo County to the national electricity grid under the last mile electricity connectivity project. He addressed an economic empowerment programme in Baringo South Constituency, indicating that the government is working on increasing the project's allocation from Sh 783 million to approximately Sh 1.5 billion to benefit more households.
According to Kenya News Agency, the focus in Baringo South Constituency involves 525 houses already earmarked for the programme, while 1,200 houses in rural and underserved areas still require electricity. Prof Kindiki stated, "We have agreed with the six legislators from Baringo to see to it that we double the funding for electricity to increase the coverage from 4,000 to 8,000 houses."
Prof Kindiki, who presided over the event, emphasized that increased access to reliable and affordable electricity would enhance the social wellbeing of residents and reduce disparities between rural and urban areas. He assured residents of the completion of stalled roads, including the 100 Kilometres Marigat-Mochongoi-Karandi tarmac road, after a new contractor was identified. He noted the importance of these roads in connecting neighbouring sub-counties and counties, which would help open up the area and promote businesses.
During the event, Prof Kindiki advocated for the Kenya Kwanza administration, under the leadership of President Dr William Ruto, highlighting their vision in energy, infrastructure, health, education, and empowerment for women, youth, and people living with disabilities. The event raised a total of Sh 14.8 million for 385 registered groups in Marigat Sub County, with contributions from the President and his deputy amounting to Sh 4.2 million.