Kenya Power has reported a dramatic increase in vandalism incidents over the past year, with 110 transformers, worth Sh137 million, stolen or damaged.
The Annual Report on the State of National Security, covering the period from September 1, 2023, to August 31, 2024, highlights these incidents as a growing challenge for the country’s energy sector.
The report reveals 114 cases of vandalism and theft, with 40 concluded, 41 ongoing in court, and 33 under investigation.
The energy sector has become a prime target for criminals, as vandals often strip valuable materials like copper from the infrastructure.
In a statement to Parliament, President William Ruto acknowledged the increasing threat to the country’s energy transmission network, which spans 7,769 kilometres of high-voltage lines, connecting 105 substations and linking to 79,710 distribution substations.
“Vandalism of electricity transmission infrastructure has led to major power outages, disrupting services and causing significant economic damage,” Ruto said, emphasizing the sector’s importance to Kenya’s economy.
One incident occurred at the Kegati substation in Kisii County, where criminals targeted equipment, resulting in a widespread blackout that affected the entire region.
“The vandalism at the Kegati substation in Kisii was unprecedented, leaving the whole area in darkness,” Ruto remarked.
In response, the government is taking several steps to protect Kenya’s energy infrastructure.
“We are also enforcing a ban on copper exports and tightening regulations in the scrap metal industry to curb the illegal sale of stolen materials,” Ruto added.
Additionally, the government is working to raise awareness in local communities about the importance of safeguarding power lines and installations.
“Our partnership with communities is crucial in enhancing security around energy infrastructure,” Ruto said, calling for collective efforts to protect the nation’s power system.
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