By Issa Hussein - Reporter
June 27, 2026 - Garissa County is set to benefit from a more reliable electricity supply following the completion of a major transformer upgrade at the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) Garissa Substation.
Principal Secretary for the State Department of Energy, Alex Kamau, on Saturday inspected the final stages of the transformer uprating project ahead of its scheduled energization project.
The project involves replacing the existing 7.5 MVA transformer with a new 23 MVA unit to meet the region's growing electricity demand.
According to the PS, the Garissa Substation has experienced a steady increase in power demand over the years, making the upgrade necessary to provide additional capacity, improve supply reliability, and strengthen the electricity transmission network.
He said the project represents a significant milestone for the region and will pave the way for the energization of Dadaab through a 33 kV feeder, officially connecting the area to the national electricity grid.
The connection is expected to expand access to reliable electricity for households, businesses and public institutions while strengthening power infrastructure across the region.
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Garissa Township MP Major (Rtd) Dekow Barow, who accompanied the PS during the inspection, welcomed the project, saying it will significantly improve power reliability in Garissa.
The legislator noted that the town's rapid growth has led to increased electricity demand, placing pressure on aging infrastructure that has exceeded its capacity.
He said the commissioning of the new transformer will address the existing challenges by ensuring a more stable and dependable power supply for residents and businesses.
Dekow added that reliable electricity is essential for driving economic growth, attracting investment and improving the quality of life for the people of Garissa.
The upgraded substation is expected to enhance the resilience of the regional power network while supporting future development and increased electricity consumption in Garissa County and its surrounding areas.