NAIROBI, Kenya — Residents and businesses in Nyanza are now enjoying more reliable electricity following the energisation of the Sondu–Ndhiwa–Homa Bay–Awendo 132kV transmission line and its associated substations.
The new infrastructure, which began transmitting power at around 4:07 p.m., is expected to significantly reduce outages and support economic growth across the region.
The project was led by PS State Department of Energy, Alex Kamau Wachira, in partnership with the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO), with support from the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO).
PS Raymond Omollo of the State Department of Internal Security and National Administration provided coordination support, ensuring multi-agency collaboration for smooth implementation.
Before energisation, the Muhoroni–Chemosit corridor carried loads of up to 68MW, while Sondu supplied no power to Ndhiwa.
The new line now delivers 27MW to Ndhiwa, easing pressure on existing infrastructure.
#teamKETRACO today energized the 132kV Sondu-Homa Bay (Ndhiwa) Transmission Line, bringing improved stability and reliability to the electricity supply in the South Nyanza region and the neighborhood. By strengthening and extending the national power transmission grid, the
Engineers say the rebalancing reduces the risk of overloads and cascading outages, while energy planners anticipate increased electricity demand as previously suppressed consumption in Nyanza is unlocked.
The line is expected to boost several sectors, including sugar, cotton, maize, dairy, and fisheries.
Lake Victoria fishing communities will benefit from more reliable cold storage and fish processing, reducing post-harvest losses.
County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs) will also be better positioned to attract investors, while SMEs in manufacturing, hospitality, and retail can operate with fewer interruptions.
Public institutions are set to benefit as well. Schools and health facilities will enjoy improved electricity and internet access, supporting digital learning, laboratories, and service delivery.
The Chair of Kenya Power and Lighting Company, Joy Mdivo, said the line addresses long-standing infrastructure gaps in western Kenya, promoting inclusion and equal opportunity.
Officials note that the project aligns with Kenya’s push toward a 24-hour economy, enabling businesses and markets to operate beyond daylight hours.
Once final audits are completed, thousands of homes and businesses are expected to gain from the expanded capacity.
