- Kombo said with the support from the national government and strategic partnerships, the Kwale government is optimistic about the project's success.
- The project will prioritise community engagement and capacity-building initiatives to ensure long-term sustainability and empowerment of local residents.
Image: SHABAN OMAR
The Kwale government, in collaboration with the national government, is set to launch a significant rural electrification initiative, the deputy governor said.
Speaking at Busho in Kinango subcounty, Chirema Kombo said the ambitious project seeks to extend electricity infrastructure to underserved rural areas within the region.
The initiative will also foster economic growth, improve access to modern amenities and enhance overall quality of life for residents, he said.
"We are partnering with the national government to install electricity in rural areas so that our people can enjoy improved services and lead comfortable lives."
According to Kombo, the electrification project aligns with the broader government efforts to bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas.
He said access to electricity is a fundamental right and a catalyst for development, highlighting the transformative impact reliable electricity can have on education, healthcare, agriculture and small-scale industries.
Kombo said with the support from the national government and strategic partnerships, the Kwale government is optimistic about the project's success and its potential to spur sustainable development.
The project will prioritise community engagement and capacity-building initiatives to ensure long-term sustainability and empowerment of local residents.
The deputy governor added that the project seeks to improve health and environmental conservation.
A majority of communities in rural areas rely on firewood, a factor that has contributed to deforestation.
Kombo said with enough electricity, residents can embrace e-cooking to reduce over reliance on natural resources while also promoting conservation efforts and quality healthcare.
"The initiative aims not only at providing electricity, but also empowering communities to adopt sustainable practices for a healthier and more prosperous future."
The county also aims at partnering with investors in installing network and internet towers in a bid to bridge the digital divide and boost economic opportunities in rural areas, the county official said.
He added that the project will provide robust connectivity that is crucial for communication, education, healthcare, and economic growth.
According to Kombo, availability of strong and reliable network coverage is expected to attract businesses, facilitate e-commerce and enable remote work opportunities, thereby creating jobs and bolstering the local economy.
He said the move underscores a broader strategy to empower rural populations by equipping them with the tools necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
The deputy governor emphasised the need to prioritise peace and extend support towards the government's development initiatives.
He said the potential consequences of continued unrest due to anti-government protests posed a significant risk of delaying the project's implementation, which promises extensive benefits.
He urged all concerned parties to unite in fostering a stable environment conducive to progress and prosperity.