Strathmore University is playing a big role in advancing sustainable energy initiatives within Makueni County, Kenya. In collaboration with the county government, UKPACT, and the World Resources Institute, the university has been instrumental in developing and implementing the Makueni County Energy Plan (CEP), aiming to enhance energy access, reliability, and sustainability across the region.
The journey toward the development of the Makueni County Energy Policy was marked by a writing and review workshop held on April 2, 2025. The event, which brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, was spearheaded by Makueni County’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, and Energy, with technical support from Strathmore University’s Energy Research Centre (SERC), the World Resources Institute (WRI), and UKPACT. The workshop served as a platform for experts to discuss the policy’s objectives, ensure alignment with international best practices, and refine strategies for energy management and infrastructure development.
Peter Nyamai, Member of the County Executive Committee for the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, and Energy, affirmed the importance of reliable and affordable energy in fostering industrial growth, expanding businesses, and promoting socio-economic development in Makueni. “Reliable energy is not just a service; it’s a key driver of development,” Nyamai remarked, highlighting the county’s ambition to ensure access to consistent and affordable power for all residents.
On August 5, 2024, they achieved the commissioning of a 200-kilowatt On-Grid Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system at the Makueni County Referral Hospital. This project was a collaborative effort between Strathmore University, Makueni County, UKPACT, and the World Resources Institute. The solar system supplements the often unreliable grid electricity, ensuring a consistent power supply to essential medical services. Governor H.E. Mutula Kilonzo Jr. highlighted the project’s impact, stating, “This investment in renewable energy infrastructure at the Makueni County Referral Hospital sets a precedent for green initiatives in Kenya.”
In September 2024, the ten-year CEP was officially unveiled, outlining strategies to electrify households, schools, and healthcare facilities, support agricultural value addition, and enhance water supply systems. The plan was developed through comprehensive data collection, including surveys of 634 households, 394 businesses, 365 educational institutions, and 55 healthcare facilities, utilizing tools such as the Energy Access Explorer and Kobo Toolbox. Governor Mutula emphasized the plan’s significance, expressing, “My dream is to see a County powered by clean, sustainable, reliable and affordable energy.”
To ensure effective implementation, a five-day energy management training workshop was conducted, bringing together teams from various government departments. Led by Eng. Naomi Nthambi, the Chief Officer for Energy, the training focused on energy conservation and management strategies. Eng. Nthambi highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “The training emphasized the pivotal role of energy conservation in the county.”
Strathmore University’s Energy Research Centre (SERC) has been at the forefront of these initiatives, providing technical expertise and support. Dr. Churchill Saoke, Director of SERC, expressed the university’s commitment, saying, “He assured the county of Strathmore University’s unwavering technical support as Makueni advances in implementing its County Energy Plan.”
