Kitui: Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Opiyo Wandayi has reaffirmed the Government's commitment to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to spur economic development in the country. The CS stated that the growing demand for energy has compelled the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum to seek alternative green sources of power to complement supply on the national grid and bridge the deficit.
According to Kenya News Agency, Wandayi mentioned that the ministry is collaborating with County governments to accelerate the installation of clean-energy infrastructure nationwide. This effort aims to reduce household air pollution, expand electricity access, and protect livelihoods. Speaking at Kitui Energy Center in Kitui town during a ceremony marking this year's International Day of Clean Energy, the CS highlighted this year's theme, 'Clean energy for people and planet,' which underscores the social, health, and economic benefits of the country's energy transition.
Wandayi emphasized that the transition must focus on people, including reducing health risks, creating livelihoods, empowering women and youth, and ensuring no Kenyan is left behind. He reported that more than 400,000 customers were connected in the 2024/2025 Financial Year, primarily through the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity programme. National electricity access now stands at about 75 per cent, while access to clean cooking solutions remains low at roughly 34.4 per cent, with the majority of households still relying on firewood.
The Cabinet Secretary warned about the public-health challenge posed by household air pollution, citing estimates that approximately 26,000 Kenyans die annually due to this issue. He reiterated the Government's commitment to achieving universal electricity access and clean cooking by 2030, urging communities and implementing agencies to cooperate in safeguarding and fast-tracking projects.
Principal Secretary for Energy Alex Wachira informed the gathering that the Government is promoting programmes to expand solar access to remote and arid areas. These initiatives aim to reach households living beyond the grid and strengthen resilience in areas where rainfall and climate shocks have strained livelihoods.
Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) Chief Executive Officer Rose Mkalama stated that the agency is supporting the national clean-energy agenda by promoting technologies such as solar photovoltaic systems, solar water systems, solar cookers, and solar driers. She added that REREC operates regional offices, currently nine and expanding, and provides training and demonstration programmes for farmers, households, youths, and institutions, including university visits to expose students to renewable-energy technologies.
Kitui County Executive Committee Member for Energy and Environment Richard Mwendandu noted that the county is implementing programmes to reduce dependence on biomass and increase clean-fuel uptake. He expressed concern that only a small share of households currently use LPG or biogas and outlined plans to maximize household connections, curb deforestation linked to biomass use, and expand clean-energy options to as many families as possible.