This archive report was first published on 14 December 2019.
On December 14, 2019, President Kenyatta emphasized the importance of ensuring that public resources are used effectively in implementing infrastructure projects across the country.
Speaking in Mbalambala, Garissa County, during the commissioning of the 50MW Garissa solar power plant, the President stated, 'We want money allocated for development to go the right projects but not the pockets of a few people. You the people are our employers and you have the right to hold us as leaders to account to make sure your money is used properly.'
The 50MW Garissa solar power plant, developed by the Rural Energy Authority (REA) at a cost of Shs13 billion, is the largest in East and Central Africa and adds to Kenya's profile as a leader in renewable energy generation in Africa.
President Kenyatta noted that the power plant is part of a broader government strategy to harness 400MW of electricity from the country's vast solar resource.
He announced that Garissa, which previously relied on unstable thermal power, is now fully connected to the national power grid.
The President emphasized the government's commitment to narrowing the development gap between regions of the country, stating, 'I see that the gap that existed is being reduced. We are developing our country uniformly from Moyale to Namanga from Mombasa to Lake Victoria.'
President Kenyatta also announced plans to construct water pans in the region for rainwater harvesting and expressed his intention to return to the region soon to officially open the Garissa to Modogashe road and launch the construction of the Mbalambala to Garissa road.
