Awendo Constituency is set to experience a significant improvement in electricity access following the allocation of KSh69 million by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) for last-mile connectivity projects.
Area Member of Parliament, Hon. Walter Owino, confirmed that the funding will be used to connect small households to the national power grid, a move expected to enhance electricity supply across the entire sub-county. Contractors are expected to begin construction works by the end of February.
“We have received KSh69 million from REREC for electricity last-mile connectivity, with contractors expected to begin construction works by the end of this month,” said Hon. Owino, noting that the project will directly benefit underserved villages.
The electrification program will involve the installation of transformers in several areas, including Oora Village (one transformer), Kanyokech Village (two transformers), Ogongo Village (three transformers), Orembe Village (one transformer), Dede Legio Church (one transformer), Wayagi Village (one transformer), and Kagak 1 Village (one transformer).
The development comes against the backdrop of broader power infrastructure improvements in South Nyanza, spearheaded by the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO). The recently completed 132kV Awendo–Masaba Transmission Line and the Masaba Substation are expected to significantly improve electricity reliability in the region.
According to KETRACO, the new transmission line will ease load constraints on the Sondu line, ensuring a more efficient and uninterrupted power supply. The use of high-rise steel towers along the line is also expected to eliminate tree-related disruptions, a longstanding cause of power outages in the region.
Project Manager Eng. Moses Kerre confirmed that the transmission line is fully completed and currently undergoing commissioning. He noted that it is scheduled to be operational within the next two to three months, forming a stronger and more interconnected grid linking Olkaria to Bomet, Sondu, and Ndhiwa.
Once energized, the Masaba Substation will reinforce low-voltage connections from Awendo to Migori and Kehancha. The facility is equipped with high-capacity transformers and a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, enabling real-time monitoring and efficient power distribution.
“The commissioning of this project in May 2025 will be a game-changer for South Nyanza, providing stable, reliable, and efficient electricity to drive economic growth and development,” Eng. Kerre said.
The combined impact of last-mile connectivity and upgraded transmission infrastructure is expected to boost businesses, industries, and essential services across the region by reducing outages, supporting investment, and laying a strong foundation for future economic expansion.
About the Author
