Hope for Wajir as new generator now set to ease power outages

The new ENCOMM generator arrived in Wajir on Monday./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Residents of Wajir can breathe a sigh of relief following the arrival of a new ENCOMM power generator, expected to address the issue of persistent blackouts and rationing that have plagued the town for months.

For months, the residents have voiced frustration over the consistent power outages that have disrupted their daily lives with traders forced to count losses. Health facilities have not been spared either.

On Monday, Wajir East MP Aden Daud Mohamed, speaking in Wajir town confirmed that a generator had been delivered. 

The generator has a rated capacity of 1 megawatt, with an effective output of 0.7 megawatts. Installation work is currently underway. Once operational, it is expected to raise Wajir’s overall production capacity from 2.3MW to 3MW.

Despite the boost, the town’s peak demand stands at roughly 3.3MW, leaving a shortfall even after the installation.

A second generator of similar capacity is expected before the end of the month.

“A second generator of similar capacity will help further stabilise supply,” the MP said

He added that longer-term plans are also in motion with the Ministry of Energy issuing a request for proposal for an 8MW solar hybrid project intended to provide a more sustainable and reliable supply.

On Monday, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi met Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi in efforts to secure a long-term electricity solution for the county.

The CS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering the 6MW hybrid system combining solar PV and battery storage, which the governor noted would provide a reliable and sustainable power supply for the county.

Residents interviewed hoped that the additional capacity will not only stabilise supply but also pave the way for long-term solutions to Wajir’s electricity challenges.

Mohamed Hussein, a businessman in the town while welcoming the latest development, said it will ease the problem, but was however, quick to add that a long-term solution lies in the county being connected to the national grid.

“I have a shop and usually stock perishable goods which get spoiled time and again due to constant power blackout. I have on several occasions helplessly watched as my equipment breaks down. The situation in the town, as far as power is concerned, has been terrible,” Mohamed said.

Ambia Hussei, another trader, said the arrival of the generator marks a big step toward reliability—and relief after months of uncertainty.

“This generator brings renewed hope. We have been losing customers and stock because we never know when the lights will go off. We just want stable power so we can work normally. The government should hear our cry and act,” she said.