EMBU, Kenya- Residents of Mbeere North Constituency in Kenya are celebrating a historic milestone after the area was finally connected to electricity under the government’s Last Mile Connectivity Project, ending 62 years of darkness and opening the door to digital learning and economic growth.
For decades, the constituency remained largely marginalized in electricity access despite being located near the Seven Forks dams, a major source of the country’s hydropower that contributes about 600 megawatts to the national grid.
Now, with most schools connected to electricity, students are set to benefit from digital learning as the government rolls out the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.
Andrew Gitau, head teacher of FGCK Kamaua Secondary School in Evurore Ward, said the lack of power had severely hampered implementation of digital learning.
“We have been struggling for years. Schools in this area have not been able to effectively implement the CBE system due to lack of electricity,” said Gitau.
He noted that although the school had received computers and printers, they remained unused because there was no power.
“Despite being equipped with computers and printers, they have not been in use. Our students have been left behind in digital learning,” he said.
Gitau explained that teachers were forced to travel more than four kilometres to Kanyuambora shopping centre to type and print exams and other learning materials.
“Connecting our school to electricity will ensure smooth learning and equip our students with the necessary digital literacy skills under the CBE system,” he added.
Area residents also welcomed the move, describing it as long overdue.
Michael Njeru, speaking on behalf of the community, praised the national government for finally lighting up the region.
“We have lived in darkness for 62 years despite being near the Seven Forks dams that contribute power to the national grid,” said Njeru.
He said electricity would unlock economic opportunities for over 1,500 residents across various
villages.
“With electricity, we can now set up small businesses such as posho mills, welding workshops, barber shops and many more. This will greatly improve our livelihoods,” he said.
According to Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira, the government has allocated Sh336 million in the current financial year to expand electricity access in Mbeere North and ensure more households are connected to the national grid.
The power connection is expected to transform both education and economic activity in the constituency, marking a new chapter of growth and inclusion for the once-neglected region.
