Parliament has, on Sunday, November 2, 2025, announced a major step in Kenya’s food security and energy agenda, following the rollout of a Ksh 2.98 billion electrification project at the Galana Kulalu Irrigation Scheme.

The Galana Kulalu Food Security Electrification Project (GKFSCEP), jointly implemented by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), aims to replace the old diesel-powered systems with clean, stable electricity.

This move, Parliament stated, will not only light up homes but also energise irrigation pumps that will sustain thousands of farmers in Kilifi County.

During an oversight visit to the site, the Senate Committee on Energy, led by Oburu Oginga, said the project was a symbol of Kenya’s commitment to sustainable development.

“This project needs to be completed in time so that the people of Kilifi County, especially this Weru village, can be connected to the national grid,” Senator Oburu said.

According to Parliament, the KSh2.98 billion project is more than just infrastructure; it represents a lifeline for farmers who have struggled for years with unreliable power and low productivity.

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The project is structured around four key components: a 220/66 kV substation at Weru Ranch, two 27-kilometre 66 kV power lines connecting Weru Ranch to Shakahola and Shakahola to the Galana Kulalu Farm, and a 66/33 kV substation and metering station at the farm itself.

Senator Beatrice Ogolla called for the inclusion of local communities in government projects, saying, “Corporate Social Responsibility should be included in each project that the Government undertakes, from macro to micro to benefit the local communities.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Senator Edwin Sifuna, who stated that the locals should be the first beneficiaries.

“Senator Sifuna said that the local communities should be the first beneficiaries of mega projects because from Marsabit to Menengai to Kipeto, the local communities complain of being neglected and don’t benefit from the projects,” Sifuna stated.

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Senator Danson Mungatana added that the project is vital to national development.

“The Government must deliver on the Galana Kulalu project for the food security of this country and the country at large,” he said.

Senator Lomenen also noted that energy is a key enabler of growth, especially in transforming irrigation schemes into productive agricultural zones.

Parliament stated that the project, which is expected to be completed by June 30, 2026, will light up homes, power farms, and boost food production in Kilifi and beyond.

The committee later paid a courtesy call to Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, where discussions focused on addressing energy challenges and ensuring local communities benefit from the project.

For residents of Galana Kulalu, the flicker of new power lines will mean more than just light; it will be the start of renewed hope, self-reliance, and the long-awaited promise of food security.