Residents of Katharane Sub-location in Mbeere South Constituency, Embu, are expressing their frustration over the prolonged lack of electricity connection in their area, which they argue has hindered development for decades.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Winfred Nyambura, a local salonist, highlighted the profound impact of the absence of electricity on daily life.
She lamented, “At nightfall, darkness descends in the village and life grinds to a halt. Business people like me at our main trading center hurriedly close business for lack of business and security reasons.”
Despite repeated petitions to government authorities, including the Member of Parliament’s office, the residents remain in the dark, figuratively and literally.
Nyambura expressed the community’s disappointment, stating, “We have tried to reach out to our public representatives and local authorities with no progress but empty promises.”
The lack of electricity not only affects businesses but also hampers educational opportunities.
Josphat Kinyua, a local trader, noted, “Children are unable to do their studies at night well as they have to rely on unreliable sources such as candles and lanterns which has greatly hampered the level of education in this area.”
The situation has also hindered economic growth, with Faith Njeru, a local hotelier, unable to expand her business due to the absence of electricity.
She explained, “I have so many business ideas that I wish to implement such as setting up a posho mill and fueling station, but that now remains just but a mere dream as a result of lack of electricity.”
While some residents have resorted to solar power, it’s not a sustainable solution for everyone.
The community is urging its leaders to prioritize the connection of electricity in their area to unlock its full potential for development.
Despite the government’s efforts in last-mile connectivity projects across the country, Katharine Sub-location residents feel neglected and left out.
They hope their plea for electricity connection will be heard and addressed soon to pave the way for progress and prosperity in their community.
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