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PHASE 1 OF STIMA MASHINANI TO BRIGHTEN UASIN GISHU AND CHANGE LIVELIHOODS

Uasin Gishu County has officially launched Phase One of the Stima Mashinani initiative, which aims to connect over 600 households across six sub-counties to electricity.

In partnership with REREC’s Matching Fund Program, the project seeks to increase electricity connectivity from 65% to 95% by 2030, in line with the County’s Nguzo Kumi blueprint focused on socio-economic empowerment.

The first phase of the electrification project includes one entry point in each sub-county, with the following locations identified for the initiative: Lelmokwo (Kesses), Siliboi (Ainabkoi), Mobet (Soy), Kapchemaget (Turbo), Kabiyet (Moiben), and Kaptien (Squota) (Kapseret).

Governor H.E. Jonathan Chelilim Bii expressed his excitement, stating, “This partnership with REREC will unlock opportunities for economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and job creation. We are aiming for 95% connectivity by 2030, and this is just the first step toward transforming Uasin Gishu.”

The initiative, which is integrated with the Angaza Mashinani program, will not only enhance security but also promote a 24-hour economy that benefits both rural and urban communities.

Deputy Governor Hon. Kapkea Evans added, “By targeting rural and remote areas, we are ensuring that no one is left behind in this development.”

On his part, Dr. Sammy Kottut, CECM for Water, Sanitation, Energy, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, emphasized that the project focuses on the most underserved areas, saying, “We are targeting the most remote places to ensure everyone benefits from this electrification drive.”

Mary Kerich, the Chief Officer for Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, further stressed, “This project is not only about access to electricity but also, promoting sustainability and ensuring that our environmental goals align with socio-economic growth. Electricity access plays a critical role in advancing green initiatives and sustainable energy practices.”

Eng. Jonah Koskei, REREC’s regional manager, expressed confidence in the project’s successful implementation, saying, “The project we have commissioned will be well implemented, delivering lasting benefits to the people of Uasin Gishu.”

Senior county officials were also present, highlighting the unified effort behind the initiative.

For many residents, the project has already started making a difference. Salina Sego, a mother of three school-going children, shared her joy: “This is a blessing. My children can now study without challenges.” With electricity, Salina plans to start a poultry business and enhance her farming using irrigation through water pumping.

This initiative is a crucial step toward a more connected and prosperous Uasin Gishu, where access to electricity will drive economic growth, improve security, and enhance quality of life. The County Government is also advocating for an increase in the REREC Matching Fund ceiling to accelerate electrification efforts across the county.