Aasai

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has called upon Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to join the Kenya Kwanza government in a bid to foster national unity and fast-track development across the country. Wandayi made the passionate appeal during the official launch of a rural electrification initiative in Machakos County, where he emphasized the need for all communities, including the Kamba region, to be included in the countrys transformation journey.

Addressing residents of Kayumbani in Mikuyu village, Wandayi underscored the importance of inclusive leadership, urging political leaders to put aside election rivalries and focus on service delivery. He pointed out that President William Ruto’s administration is committed to forming a government that works for all Kenyans, regardless of their political leanings.

“President Ruto has opened a new chapter of leadership by bringing together a broad coalition aimed at delivering on the development agenda,” Wandayi stated. “That’s why I am calling on my brother Kalonzo Musyoka to come on board. Let us work together for the benefit of our people. Politics will come later — now is the time for development.”

The electrification project, which was hosted by Machakos Town Member of Parliament Caleb Mule, will see at least 118 households in the constituency connected to the national electricity grid. It is part of the Last Mile Connectivity Project implemented by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), a key pillar in the governments plan to provide universal access to power under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Wandayi noted that electrification is a crucial enabler of economic development, saying it will power small and medium enterprises, enhance education by improving study conditions for students, and empower women and youth to engage in income-generating activities.

“I was once in the opposition myself,” Wandayi reminded the crowd. “I even led a formidable opposition force in Parliament. But I made a decision to work with others for the progress of our country. The Kamba community is known for its determination and industrious spirit. It would be unfortunate for such a resilient people to be left behind while the rest of Kenya moves forward.”

He praised MP Caleb Mule for his development-centered leadership and echoed Mule’s appeal for Kalonzo to consider working with the current administration.

Wandayi further revealed that Machakos County has been allocated Sh1.4 billion for rural electrification in the 2024–2025 financial year. Of this amount, over Sh120 million has been set aside specifically for Machakos Town constituency.

“This government does not discriminate. The President has given us clear instructions — development must reach every county, every ward, and every Kenyan. Electricity is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity that transforms lives,” he said.

The CS explained how access to electricity supports socio-economic development by enabling learning, creating jobs, enhancing healthcare services, and spurring digital connectivity in rural areas.

“Once homes have power, children can revise in the evening, businesses can thrive, and communities can grow. We are lighting up Kenya not just with electricity, but with hope and opportunity,” Wandayi said.

He assured residents that the Ruto-led administration remains steadfast in its mission to bridge infrastructure gaps across the country and lift communities through targeted investments.

The launch of the project in Machakos marks another milestone in the government’s plan to expand energy access, reduce inequality, and promote inclusive development. The call for Kalonzo Musyoka to join forces with the government reflects a growing shift towards a collaborative approach to nation-building, as leaders rally around service delivery over partisanship.

With initiatives like the Last Mile Connectivity Project, the government hopes to illuminate lives and power prosperity across every corner of Kenya.