Namanga and the wider border region have received a major electricity supply boost following the commissioning of the 132/33kV Namanga Substation, with the project expected to improve power reliability and support trade and investment along the Kenya-Tanzania border.
In an update, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo noted that the strengthened electricity network would improve power quality and reliability for businesses and industries across Southern Kenya while providing a stronger foundation for cross-border trade and investment.
The substation was commissioned by President William Ruto in September 2026 and is now fully operational.
Namanga Substation. Photo: Courtesy.
Implemented by the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO), the facility forms the southern terminal of the 132kV Machakos–Konza–Isinya–Namanga transmission corridor.
The project includes a 94-kilometre transmission link from Isinya, which delivers bulk electricity to Namanga at 132kV before stepping it down to 33kV for distribution.
The infrastructure also includes new feeders designed to ease pressure on existing electricity lines and improve the reliability of power supplied to the border region.
According to Omollo, the upgraded network will help address the blackouts previously experienced under the former 33kV system.
The substation also facilitates the evacuation of renewable energy generated from Olkaria and Kipeto to the Namanga border region, increasing the availability of power for consumers and businesses.
The improved electricity supply is supporting key facilities in Namanga, including the Namanga ESP Modern Market and the One-Stop Border Post.
Omollo said reliable electricity was also critical to the operations of security agencies and other government departments working along the border.
The improved power network supports the continuous operation of critical security, surveillance, communication and safety systems, allowing authorities to more effectively manage the movement of people and goods across the border.
The project is also expected to improve the operating environment for businesses and industries in Southern Kenya by reducing disruptions associated with unreliable electricity supply.
Namanga is a key entry and exit point between Kenya and Tanzania, making reliable infrastructure important for facilitating cross-border movement, trade and investment.
