A newly commissioned electricity substation in Migori County is expected to transform power supply reliability across South Nyanza, laying the groundwork for industrial expansion, improved livelihoods and accelerated economic activity in the region.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo said the energisation of the Masaba Substation by the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) in June 2025 marks a significant milestone in strengthening the region’s electricity infrastructure.
The 132kV bulk supply facility replaces the previously overstretched 33/11kV distribution line from Awendo, which extended more than 26 kilometres and had long been associated with high transmission losses, voltage fluctuations and frequent supply instability.
According to Omollo, the new substation now serves as a localized bulk power supply node, significantly reducing the length of Kenya Power’s distribution network and improving efficiency in electricity delivery to homes, businesses and institutions.
The facility also enhances the quality and sustainability of power supplied to the region by drawing electricity from a diversified energy mix, including hydroelectric power generated at Sondu Miriu and geothermal energy from Olkaria.
“The newly energized Masaba Substation is a key enabler of uninterrupted power supply, a foundation for industrial growth, improved livelihoods and modern economic activity,” Omollo said.
The infrastructure incorporates advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, enabling real-time monitoring and management of the electricity grid. It is also connected through a 28-kilometre transmission corridor supported by heavy-duty steel towers designed to minimize faults and outages.
Additional facilities at the substation include a control and relay room, battery room and auxiliary services unit aimed at improving operational reliability and system resilience.
Beyond its role in stabilizing electricity supply, the project has also delivered community benefits through corporate social responsibility initiatives. The contractor supported water access projects for local residents, helping address community needs alongside infrastructure development.
Omollo noted that the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has a critical role in safeguarding the facility, describing the substation and its associated transmission network as strategic national assets.
“The State Department plays a vital role in safeguarding the operational integrity of the facility, ensuring the security of critical transmission infrastructure and protecting the substation and its associated networks,” he said.
The commissioning of the Masaba Substation forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen energy infrastructure and improve access to reliable electricity as a driver of economic transformation.
Energy experts have long identified stable and affordable power as a key requirement for attracting investment, supporting manufacturing and unlocking growth in rural economies.
With the new facility now operational, businesses and households across Migori and the wider South Nyanza region are expected to benefit from fewer outages, improved voltage stability and enhanced access to reliable electricity, factors seen as critical for stimulating investment and job creation.
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