Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi. Faith Matete Nyanza and the wider Western Kenya region have received a major boost in electricity reliability following the successful energization of the Sondu–Ndhiwa–Homa Bay–Awendo 132kV transmission line and its associated substations.
The project is expected to end chronic power outages that have long constrained economic growth in the region.
The new line delivers about 70 megawatts of additional capacity through the Kisumu–Sondu–Ndhiwa corridor, enough to supply electricity to approximately 70,000 additional households across Homa Bay, Migori and neighbouring counties.
It also provides an alternative power supply route, strengthening redundancy and improving power quality across the network.
Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi described the project as a turning point for the region, saying reliable electricity was critical for unlocking economic potential.
“This transmission line is a game-changer for Nyanza and western Kenya. It addresses long-standing power reliability challenges that have held back industry and livelihoods. With stable electricity, we are opening the door to investment, job creation, and inclusive growth,” Wandayi said.
Wandayi noted that the ongoing and planned connection programmes, electrification coverage in South Nyanza and surrounding areas supplied by the line is expected to increase by about 15 per cent, rising from an average of 40 per cent to roughly 55 per cent.
“While this remains below leading regions such as Kiambu, where access stands at over 90 per cent, the gap is steadily narrowing”.
The project was implemented by the State Department of Energy under Principal Secretary Alex Wachira in partnership with the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited, with coordination support from the National Government Administration Officers.
The multi-agency effort was overseen by the State Department of Internal Security and National Administration, led by Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo.
Power began flowing through the line at around 4:07 p.m, marking the operational start of infrastructure long considered critical for stabilising electricity supply in a region historically affected by periodic load shedding and network congestion.
“The impact has been immediate. Persistent load shedding that previously affected parts of Nyanza has been eliminated, while the new line has reduced congestion along the Muhoroni–Chemosit corridor”
Before energisation, the corridor carried loads of up to 68 megawatts, a level considered stressful for system stability.
Following energisation, power flows have been redistributed more evenly, significantly reducing pressure on the network.
Engineers say the improved balance lowers the risk of overloads and widespread outages, strengthening grid resilience.
Energy planners also anticipate an increase in electricity demand as previously unmet needs in the region are unlocked, signalling renewed economic activity.
Several productive sectors are expected to benefit directly from the improved power supply.
Agro-processing industries such as sugar, cotton, maize and dairy processing are likely to expand operations, while fishing communities around Lake Victoria will benefit from improved cold storage and fish processing facilities, reducing post-harvest losses.
The strengthened grid is also expected to support county aggregation and industrial parks, attract investors and improve business continuity for small and medium-sized enterprises in manufacturing, hospitality and retail.
Reliable evening power will enable traders and service providers to operate for longer hours, supporting the government’s push towards a 24-hour economy.
Public institutions, including schools and health facilities, are set to benefit from expanded last-mile connectivity, improving access to electricity and internet services and supporting better learning and service delivery.
According to the chairperson of Kenya Power and Lighting Company, Joy Mdivo, targeted investments in transmission infrastructure are correcting long-standing gaps that left some regions underserved.
She said dependable electricity would support industrial growth, strengthen social services and expand economic opportunity.
She added that additional figures on new household connections and updated electrification rates are expected once final audits are completed, with thousands of homes and businesses projected to benefit.
For communities across Nyanza and western Kenya, the energised transmission line represents more than improved electricity supply.
It signals stronger local economies, greater inclusion and a foundation for long-term regional development, reinforcing the role of reliable power as a key driver of growth and livelihoods.
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