To spearhead the development of the Makueni County Energy Policy, the county convened a writing and review workshop on April 2, 2025.
The policy is being developed by an interdepartmental committee led by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, and Energy, with technical support from the Strathmore Energy Research Centre, the World Resources Institute, and UKPACT. Through this collaboration, the policy aims to align with international best practices in renewable energy and public-private partnerships.
Peter Nyamai, Member of the County Executive Committee, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works and Energy, lay emphasis on the importance of reliable and affordable energy to spur industrial growth, business expansion, and socio-economic prosperity. Makueni Climate Innovation Centre, which will provide incubation, capacity building and financing opportunities to new, small and medium enterprises in the county, is one of the projects that will benefit from an accessible and reliable energy infrastructure that the Makueni Energy Policy will address.
The Makueni Energy Policy seeks to:
~Promote renewable energy by harnessing solar, wind and biogas resources
~Improve energy affordability and reliability
~Encourage decentralized energy solutions, such as mini-grids and off-grid solar systems, to ensure stable power supply in remote areas
~Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) to attract investment in sustainable energy projects
Eng. Naomi Nthambi, Chief Officer for Energy, Makueni County, acknowledged that energy, being a key enabler, drives the growth of all other sectors, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 7.
She emphasized that developing the Makueni County Energy Policy is a critical step, as it will provide a clear framework for implementing the county’s energy plan, ensuring inclusive access to energy for all residents.
The Makueni County policy formulation is a road map for achieving its long-term energy access goals by carefully considering the objectives and strategies aligned with its citizens’ needs. Effective policy formulation leads to positive and lasting impacts, fostering progress in Makueni.
Makueni County remains at the forefront of providing affordable, clean, reliable, and sustainable development and economic growth, leading to essentially improved livelihoods for its citizens.
Article written by Anne Njeri, Communications Officer, Strathmore Energy Research Centre.
