MIGORI, Kenya, Jun 9 – The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has energized the Awendo–Isebania (Masaba) Transmission Line to improve electricity reliability and supply stability across Migori County and the broader South Nyanza region.
The 28-kilometre, 132kV single-circuit line is part of the Kenya Power Transmission Expansion Project (KPTEP), which seeks to enhance access to electricity in underserved regions.
The project also includes the construction of a new 132kV substation at Isebania (Masaba) and the extension of the existing 132/33kV Awendo Substation.
The works were done by China Aerospace Construction Group Co., Ltd. (CACGC), with joint financing from the Government of Kenya and the EXIM Bank of China, at a cost of Sh1.32 billion.
A new bulk supply point at Masaba will now directly serve Isebania, Migori, and Kehancha towns, shortening Kenya Power’s distribution lines.
Sony Sugar Factory, Migori County Referral Hospital, Getonyanya Sweet Potatoes Factory, and the Isebania One Border Post (IOBP) are expected to benefit from the program. It is also expected to spur growth in small businesses, manufacturing, and investment.
Previously, the region relied on a stretched 33/11kV line from Awendo Substation covering nearly 26 kilometres, an inefficient setup that led to unstable power and frequent disruptions, especially with rising demand.
“By introducing a new bulk supply point at Masaba, we’re significantly reducing line losses and improving voltage stability. This is a game-changer for Migori and the greater South Nyanza,” KETRACO Managing Director Dr. Eng. John Mativo said.
The energized line sources electricity from the upgraded Awendo Substation, which is powered by both hydroelectric energy from the Sondu plant and geothermal energy from Olkaria, ensuring a stable, resilient, and sustainable power supply for the region’s homes, hospitals, industries, and businesses.
KETRACO, owned by the Government of Kenya, was incorporated on 2nd December 2008 under the Companies Act, pursuant to the reforms in Sessional Paper No. 4, to plan, design, construct, own, operate, and maintain high-voltage national electricity transmission lines and regional power interconnections, which form the backbone of the National Electricity Grid.
