President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to bridging regional development gaps, announcing a large-scale electrification and infrastructure push targeting Northern Kenya under an affirmative action programme aimed at expanding access to essential services.

Speaking during a development tour in Wajir County, the President said the Government is investing KSh8.4 billion to connect more than 53,300 households to electricity, describing the initiative as part of a broader strategy to ensure equitable development across the country.

“Under our affirmative action programme for Northern Kenya, we are investing KSh8.4 billion to connect more than 53,300 households to electricity, advancing our commitment to inclusive development and ensuring that no part of our country is left behind,” he said.

The Head of State commissioned the Habaswein Solar PV-BESS-Diesel Hybrid Power Plant in Wajir South Constituency, a KSh639 million project designed to improve electricity reliability through a combination of solar power, battery storage, and diesel backup systems.

The facility is expected to supply affordable and stable electricity to more than 8,565 households, with the Government saying it will help spur small businesses, improve learning conditions in schools, and strengthen healthcare delivery in the region.

Local residents welcomed the project, saying it would transform daily life in an area that has long struggled with inconsistent power supply.

“We have waited for reliable electricity for many years. This project will change how we live and work, especially for small businesses like shops and milling services,” said one Habaswein resident.

Another resident noted that access to stable electricity would reduce costs associated with fuel and improve safety in the town.

“When electricity is stable, life becomes easier. We will no longer depend entirely on generators, which are expensive to run,” said a local trader.

The hybrid system is expected to ensure uninterrupted power supply in an area where grid reliability has historically been a challenge, particularly during peak demand periods.

President Ruto also inspected the upgrading of 7.5 kilometres of roads within Habaswein Town, a KSh557 million project aimed at improving transport infrastructure and boosting economic activity.

“Also inspected the progress of the upgrading of 7.5km of roads within Habaswein Town, a KSh557 million project that will enhance mobility, facilitate trade, and improve access to essential services for residents and businesses alike,” he said.

The road works are expected to ease movement within the town, improve access to markets, and support local traders by reducing transportation delays and costs.

Engineers on site noted that the upgraded roads will significantly improve connectivity within Habaswein, linking key commercial and residential areas once completed.

The President emphasized that infrastructure development remains central to his administration’s agenda, particularly in historically underserved regions, noting that improved access to electricity and roads is key to unlocking economic potential and reducing inequality.

“We are committed to inclusive development and ensuring that no part of our country is left behind,” Ruto said, reiterating his government’s long-term development vision.

Do you want to be published? Email info@thedailywhistle.co.ke or WhatsApp 0721930260