By Miraj Guo
September 14, 2026
Lodwar town and its surrounding areas in Turkana County are set to be connected to Kenya’s national electricity grid following the near completion of two major projects valued at KSh1.01 billion.
The projects, being implemented by Kenya Power, are expected to end Lodwar’s decades-long reliance on costly diesel-powered generators for electricity supply.
The milestone, announced on September 14, 2026, will mark the first time since Kenya gained independence that Lodwar, the commercial hub of Turkana County, will receive power directly from the national grid.
The government-funded project comprises a new 66/11kV Lodwar substation and a 90-kilometre, 66kV transmission line connecting Lokichar to Lodwar.
The substation is now more than 90 per cent complete, with full commissioning expected by the end of September 2026.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Kenya Power Managing Director Dr Joseph Siror have said the project will significantly improve electricity reliability in Lodwar and the wider Turkana region.
For years, Lodwar has depended heavily on diesel generators, with the existing system costing approximately KSh900 million annually in fuel and maintenance.
The high cost of diesel generation has also been compounded by the harsh climate in Turkana, which has contributed to frequent equipment breakdowns and power rationing.
Once connected to the national grid, Lodwar is expected to enjoy a more reliable and affordable electricity supply while reducing its dependence on fossil-fuel-powered generators.
The project is expected to benefit more than 80,000 residents, while supporting key sectors of the local economy.
Healthcare facilities are expected to benefit from a more stable electricity supply, reducing the risk of disruptions to vaccines, medical equipment and other critical services.
Schools are also expected to benefit from improved access to electricity, allowing students to study for longer hours in the evening.
The connection is further expected to boost businesses and economic activities in Turkana, including livestock trade, mining, agribusiness and tourism.
Small-scale enterprises such as mechanics, salons and Jua Kali businesses are also expected to benefit from reduced energy costs and fewer disruptions associated with generator failures.
The completion of the project is therefore being viewed as a major milestone in Turkana’s development, with the national grid expected to provide the electricity capacity required to support the county’s growing population, businesses and public services.
With commissioning expected before the end of September, Lodwar is now on the verge of ending an era of dependence on expensive diesel generation and entering a new phase of reliable national-grid electricity.
