Kenya Power calls for total ban on waste copper exports to curb vandalism

Kenya Power wants the government to impose a total ban on waste copper exports to combat the rampant vandalism of power infrastructure.

The company held a forum and issued a statement on Wednesday, reporting that 365 transformers worth Sh328 million were vandalised in 2023, and an additional 78 transformers valued at Sh78 million have already been damaged this year.

At the gathering of representatives from the Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK), the Scrap Metal Council, and scrap metal dealers, Kenya Power Managing Director and CEO Joseph Siror pointed out a clear link between the trade in waste copper and increased vandalism.

"For example, between January and May 2022, when the government banned scrap metal dealing, we had zero cases of vandalism. However, immediately after the ban was lifted, we saw a significant rise in cases, with 76 transformers worth Sh 68 million vandalised between May and December 2022," he reported.

“This figure only reflects the cost of replacing the transformers. When you factor in the cost of unserved energy, business interruptions, and potential loss of life, the total losses run into billions of Kenya shillings."

Representatives from the Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK), the Scrap Metal Council, and scrap metal dealers are pictured during a Kenya Power forum on May 22, 2024 on curbing vandalism. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein/EV)

Siror called for stricter measures to control the scrap metal trade.

"We propose that all traders dealing with scrap metal, particularly copper and aluminium, must declare their sources to ensure traceability and accountability," he said.

He also recommended joint inspections of business premises and a more robust regulatory framework to weed out rogue dealers benefiting from vandalism.

Further, Siror praised the Energy Act of 2019, which criminalises tampering with electricity installations, energy theft, vandalism, and damage to streetlights and power infrastructure.

The Act prescribes a Sh5 million fine, a five-year prison sentence, or both, for offenders.

"This serves as a strong deterrent and underscores the collective responsibility to protect our shared resources," he said.

"While many in the scrap metal industry are legitimate, a few unscrupulous dealers perpetuate this vice. We urge all stakeholders to join us in eliminating these elements to ensure a sustainable and reliable power supply for all Kenyans."