Last Mile Connectivity Brings Power to Taita Taveta Villages

Voi, Kenya — 2025-09-18 11:00 EAT. Families in Ndelemani and Kambito villages, Taita Taveta County, will soon have electricity for the first time under the Last Mile Connectivity Project, ending decades of dependence on smoky paraffin lamps and costly trips to charge mobile phones.

The Latest

• Over 1,200 households in Ndelemani and Mnaoni to be connected in initial phase

• Sh780 million allocated for 8,000+ homes across Taita Taveta County

• Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi pledges additional funding for universal access

Context in Brief

• Residents currently spend Sh200 weekly on paraffin and other fuels

• Governor Andrew Mwadime: County was neglected by previous regimes in electrification plans

• Since 2015, 50+ rural electrification projects launched in Taita Taveta under Last Mile programme

Voices and Stakeholders

• Governor Mwadime: “Power will open up the county, creating jobs and boosting the economy”

• CS Wandayi: Government committed to universal electricity access

• Zawadi Mwashighadi, resident: Children will now study at night; families save time, money

Evidence & Data

• 1,200 homes: Ndelemani & Mnaoni connections in first phase.

• 8,000 homes: Total county target with Sh780M budget

• 2015: National Last Mile project launch; aims for 100% electricity access nationwide.

Risks and Implications

• Education: Access to lighting improves learning outcomes.

• Economy: Reduced energy costs; new businesses possible with reliable power.

• Challenges: Land disputes may delay project rollout

What We Don’t Know

• Timeline for connecting all 8,000 homes in Taita Taveta.

• Measures for maintaining grid reliability in remote villages.

• Whether off-grid solutions will supplement grid power for remote households.

Timeline

• 2015: Last Mile programme launched nationwide.

• 2025-09-17: Ndelemani & Kambito project commissioned.

• 2025-2026: Further connections planned across Taita Taveta.

What to Watch

• Completion pace of remaining connections.

• Government budget allocations for rural electrification.

• Impact on education, businesses, and health over next 2–3 years.