Ruto launches Sh400 million electricity project in Tana River

President Ruto in Mombasa on 26 July, where he donated Sh1.7 billion to 612 fishing groups in five coastal counties. [Robert Menza, Standard]

President William Ruto has unveiled a Sh400 million electricity project in Tana River.

The initiative, revealed on Monday, 29 July, aims to connect at least 6,000 new households and the Galana Kulalu Irrigation Project.

"We have agreed that this project will also connect the Galana Kulalu Irrigation Project to support food growth," said Ruto.

Ruto also said plans were underway to allocate Sh300 million for the supply of electricity to 14 schools in the area.

"We want to change the story of Tana River and bring development," he said.

The President also noted that Sh300 million more was set aside for the relocation of households affected by floods in the county and announced plans for four new markets to provide residents with clean and dignified operating environments.

"Our main focus is to plan for the welfare of young people," he added. 

He outlined plans for at least 3,000 affordable houses in Tana River and called on 5,000 young people to participate in the construction efforts. He promised to return in two months to initiate the programme.

Ruto began his coastal tour on Friday, 26 July.

During the tour, he donated Sh1.7 billion to fishermen, pledged Sh2.3 billion for new projects and launched the Sh4 billion Baricho water works project in Malindi.

The project will provide an additional 40 million litres of water daily to over 400,000 households in Kilifi and Mombasa counties.

The funding is part of the Sh10 billion allocated from the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMFSED) World Bank project.