Nairobi, Kenya- Kenya Power is flipping the switch—literally—on parts of the country this Thursday, May 15, 2025. The utility company has announced scheduled electricity interruptions in eight counties as part of a day-long system maintenance exercise.
If you’re in Nairobi, Kiambu, Kisii, or even as far as Garissa, consider charging your devices, prepping your backups, and planning for a few hours offline.
The planned outage will affect different locations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with Kenya Power citing essential system maintenance as the reason. Let’s break down what you need to know.
Nairobi and Kiambu: High-Density Blackout Zones
If you live in the capital or its neighboring county Kiambu, the power interruptions are extensive. In Nairobi, areas like Suswa Road, Visa Oshal School, and parts of Parklands will go dark, along with key spots such as Langata Road, AMREF, and Mbagathi Hospital.
The long list also includes Jonathan Gloag, Nyayo Highrise East, Montezeuma Funeral Home, and even Kenya Water Institute.
Meanwhile in Kiambu, the outages are set to impact residential zones and key institutions. Think Juja Police Station, Green Field East, Kamiti Corner, Theta Hotel, and Mugumo. Even major schools like Marion School and Bristar Girls won’t be spared. If you’re near Naivas Thindigwa or Wood Creek School, it’s time to prepare for the blackout.
These outages will likely disrupt homes, schools, and businesses alike, so having a Plan B for the day wouldn’t hurt.
Western and Central Kenya: Kisii, Nandi, Nyeri, Murang’a & Kirinyaga Join the List
Residents of Kisii, Nandi, Nyeri, Murang’a, and Kirinyaga counties aren’t off the hook either.
In Kisii, areas like Kangwana, Birongo, and Nyamache Market will be without power for most of the day. Local institutions like Matierio Secondary and Nyamagwa Girls and Boys are also affected. Meanwhile, Nandi County will see power cuts in Tulwo, Chepterwai, and Kamobo, impacting both homes and commercial centers.
Over in Central Kenya, Murang’a and Nyeri counties will also experience interruptions, including key institutions like Muranga High, Kahuhia Girls, and Gondo Primary. In Kirinyaga, areas such as Kiaga, Spenza Millers, and Baricho will be offline. It’s a widespread blackout that will reach deep into the agricultural and learning sectors.
Garissa: The Blackout Reaches the North East
Yes, even Garissa isn’t being left out. Power will be switched off at the Garissa Referral Hospital, Garissa Ndogo, and other areas like Bulla Mzuri, South C, and the Garissa County Assembly. Water services, too, might be affected as the Garissa Water Revenue Offices are also on the list.
This comes at a time when infrastructure in northern Kenya is under increasing scrutiny, making reliable power all the more vital.
Why It Matters – And What You Can Do
While no one ever loves a power outage, Kenya Power’s move is aimed at upgrading its systems and reducing unexpected blackouts in the future. Still, the planned outages mean businesses, schools, and households should plan ahead. Backup generators, fully charged power banks, and old-school patience might be your best friends this Thursday.
Kenya Power maintains that the effort is part of its regular infrastructure improvement schedule—and while that might bring some short-term inconvenience, the long-term gains could include fewer emergency interruptions and a more stable power supply.
Heads up: If you’re working remotely, hosting an event, or running a clinic or school, now’s the time to prepare. Thursday is shaping up to be a lights-out kind of day—literally.
