New transformer installation to boost electricity reliability, support businesses and open new investment opportunities across Garissa and neighbouring areas.
GARISSA, Kenya – Residents and businesses in Garissa County are set to benefit from a more reliable electricity supply after the government upgraded the Garissa Kenya Power substation capacity from 15 MVA to 38 MVA, a move expected to end years of frequent power interruptions.
The upgrade involves the installation of a new 23 MVA transformer, significantly increasing the substation’s ability to meet rising electricity demand driven by rapid urban growth, expanding businesses and increased economic activities in the region.
The Garissa substation, which was commissioned in May 2016, was initially equipped with a single 7.5 MVA transformer before an additional 7.5 MVA unit was installed, bringing the total capacity to 15 MVA.
However, the limited capacity struggled to match the county’s growing demand, resulting in frequent outages, low voltage challenges and losses for businesses, especially those relying on refrigeration and other power-dependent operations in the region’s hot climate.
The challenges were more severe in remote areas such as Dadaab and Balambala sub-counties, where communities relied heavily on diesel-powered mini-grids, making electricity access costly and unreliable.
Speaking during an inspection of the new transformer installation, Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira said the long-standing power challenges facing Garissa residents were coming to an end with the completion of the upgrade.
Wachira said the previous infrastructure limited Garissa’s electricity consumption capacity, leaving the county vulnerable to power shortages despite being connected to the national grid.
“We are here to inspect the progress of commissioning an additional 23 MVA transformer. This transformer was promised by the President because of the suffering the people of Garissa have experienced,” Wachira said.
He noted that the additional transformer, together with the existing infrastructure, would raise the substation’s capacity and allow Garissa and surrounding areas to absorb more power while enabling the connection of Dadaab Sub-County to the national grid.
“With this upgrade, Garissa and its environs will be able to access more reliable power, and Dadaab will finally be connected to the grid,” he added.
The PS said Kenya’s electricity demand has continued to rise due to increased economic activity, with national consumption reaching new peak levels.
He explained that the country’s power demand has grown significantly over the past three years, reflecting increased investment, industrial activity and expansion of businesses.
“With the opening up of this transformer, Garissa will now have room for increased power consumption and economic growth,” Wachira said.
Investment boost expected
Garissa Township Member of Parliament Dekow Mohamed welcomed the upgrade, saying it fulfils a commitment made to residents and will help attract investors who had previously been discouraged by unreliable electricity supply.
Dekow said improved power reliability will create a favorable environment for businesses to expand, generate employment opportunities and accelerate economic development in the county.
“We thank President William Ruto for keeping the promise made to the people of Garissa. The county has faced serious power challenges despite being connected to the national grid because the previous transformer was overloaded due to rapid growth,” he said.
The upgraded substation is expected to support households, businesses and public institutions while strengthening Garissa’s position as a growing economic hub in northern Kenya.
