MPs to get Sh50m each for power connectivity
By Anthony.Mwangi, March 8, 2024
Each of the 290 constituencies will receive Sh50 million for electricity distribution in the 2024/25 Financial Year.
Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) has been allocated Sh14.6 billion to boost power connectivity in the country.
Budget and Appropriations Committee chairperson Ndindi Nyoro (pictured) told members that the distribution of power was crucial in growth of the economy, adding that the funds will help cover areas that were lagging, especially in rural parts.
Ministry of Energy had requested for Sh9 billion to be allocated to Rerec but the committee found it prudent to increase the figure considering the high demand for power coverage.
Presenting the Budget Policy Statement, Nyoro said the Kenya Kwanza administration was prioritising technology, especially the opening of ICT hubs in all constituencies countrywide.
“Electricity is a key component for economic growth, many areas of the country still lack electricity, and that motivated members to increase the allocation to Rerec,” said Nyoro.
Number of customers connected to the national grid under the Rural Electrification Programme has grown from 1.9 million in 2020/21 to almost 3 million in 2023.
According to a report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, a sizable number of Kenyans, mainly in rural areas are yet to get connected, with the government’s Last Mile Connectivity project facing several challenges mainly lack of funds.