From Konza to Namanga: How new power line could boost southern Kenya’s economy

The 132kV Machakos–Konza–Isinya–Namanga transmission project aims to bolster electricity supply along a key economic corridor in southern Kenya. President William Ruto inaugurated the project in Kajiado on September 3, 2026, as part of regional infrastructure improvements. The initiative, managed by the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO), involves a 109-kilometre high-voltage transmission corridor with 132/33kV substations at Machakos, Konza, Isinya, and Namanga.

This transmission line does not directly provide household electricity, but its primary purpose is to transport electricity at high voltage and add capacity from the national grid to regions with growing demand. The Machakos–Konza segment, 15 kilometres in length, was energized in October 2016, while the 94-kilometre Isinya–Namanga section came online in February 2024. This commissioning underscores the broader transmission network linking the corridor.

The project is expected to boost electricity capacity for economic activities around Konza, Isinya, Bisil, Kumpa, Namanga, and surrounding areas. Major beneficiaries include Konza Technopolis, SGR operations, and businesses requiring consistent electricity supply. The transmission capacity is also vital for energy-intensive industries along the Kajiado–Namanga corridor, such as cement manufacturers, ceramic and tile factories, and industrial parks.

Additionally, hotels, safari lodges, commercial establishments, and tourism-related businesses could benefit from improved power reliability.

The main challenges are capacity and reliability. As industrial and commercial activity expands, electricity demand rises, and a more robust transmission network enables the national grid to better distribute power to growing areas, alleviating pressure on existing infrastructure. Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi emphasized that reliable electricity is crucial for attracting investment, expanding productive capacity, and enhancing regional economic ties.

KETRACO's Acting Managing Director, Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias, noted that the project will strengthen the grid's ability to serve businesses and communities while supporting Kenya's economic connections with Tanzania. Notably, Namanga's location on Kenya's border with Tanzania makes the transmission corridor relevant not only for local electricity demand but also for cross-border economic activities.

In essence, the project is about reliably moving more electricity to a region where homes, businesses, industries, transport infrastructure, and border trade are expected to require increasing power capacity.