A routine power maintenance notice by the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has reignited questions over why the utility’s North Eastern Region headquarters is based in Thika, Kiambu County, instead of the region it is mandated to serve.
KPLC announced a planned electricity interruption in Gitaru, Nyathuna and Cura in Kiambu County from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as part of scheduled network maintenance.
The affected areas were listed under “North Eastern Region” despite being located in Central Kenya, a detail that has renewed scrutiny of KPLC’s regional administrative structure.
The North Eastern Region covers Garissa, Wajir and Mandera counties. However, its regional headquarters operates from Thika, outside the region.
The arrangement has long been criticised by residents and leaders in North Eastern Kenya, who argue that it reflects historical patterns in which government institutions serving the region have been administered from other parts of the country.
Mr. Hared Osama say the location of the regional office raises concerns about equitable access to services and decision-making, particularly in a region that continues to face significant infrastructure challenges.
“While electricity connectivity has improved in Garissa Township and a number of trading centres, large parts of Wajir and Mandera counties remain underserved by the national electricity grid. Many communities continue to depend on alternative power sources, including diesel generators and standalone solar systems,” he said.
The development experts argue that reliable electricity is essential for expanding healthcare, education, manufacturing and investment, adding that limited grid coverage has slowed economic growth across the region.
Mr. Hared said it underscores the continued absence of major public institutions within North Eastern Kenya and raises fresh questions about whether the region receives equitable investment in public infrastructure.
KPLC said the planned outage is intended to facilitate network maintenance and improve the reliability and safety of electricity supply.
The utility also announced scheduled power interruptions in parts of West Pokot and Nyeri counties on the same day.
The company is yet to explain why its North Eastern regional headquarters remains in Kiambu County or whether there are plans to relocate it closer to the region it serves.
