MPs slam KETRACO over Coast power project delays despite billions in funding
The MPs questioned why KETRACO’s reports indicated significant progress when there was little visible activity on the ground.
Members of Parliament have criticised the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) for delays in completing key power transmission projects at the Coast, despite consistent funding from Parliament and repeated assurances that work was progressing.
During a site inspection, the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Energy, chaired by Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, expressed disappointment over the slow progress of the Rabai and Dongo Kundu projects, noting that the sites remained “bushy and largely abandoned.”
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The MPs questioned why KETRACO’s reports indicated significant progress when there was little visible activity on the ground.
“The project sites remain bushy and appear abandoned, which is unacceptable given the continuous allocation of funds by Parliament,” Gikaria said.
KETRACO Chief Executive Officer Kipkemoi Kibias attributed the delays to ongoing court cases and challenges in acquiring wayleaves for the construction of transmission towers and power evacuation lines.
The company’s Chief Finance Officer added that all materials and equipment had been procured and assured that construction would begin promptly once legal and land issues were resolved.
Limited Kenyan firms participation
MPs also voiced concern over the limited participation of Kenyan firms in large infrastructure projects financed through foreign loans.
They cited the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone (SEZ), funded by a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) loan, which restricts major contracts to Japanese firms and allows Kenyan companies to participate only as subcontractors.
“This arrangement is exploitative and denies Kenyan contractors the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities,” Gikaria said.
“Our professionals are fully capable of executing such projects, and the government must ensure that future foreign agreements protect local interests.”
The committee urged the government to be more cautious when negotiating foreign-funded deals to ensure Kenyan firms and professionals have fair opportunities to contribute to national development.
The Dongo Kundu initiative is a three-phase project aimed at enhancing transport, industrial growth, and investment opportunities along the south coast.
The Dongo Kundu Bypass — an 18-kilometre dual carriageway with three bridges — provides an alternative to the congested Likoni Ferry, significantly cutting travel time to Diani and boosting tourism and regional trade.
The Dongo Kundu SEZ is being developed as a key industrial hub to attract investment in oil refining, manufacturing, and related sectors. Officials say it will help reduce Kenya’s reliance on imports while creating jobs for locals.
Rabai power project
In the energy sector, the Rabai power project remains central to the regional electricity supply.
Initially a 90 MW thermal power plant, it is now set for conversion to a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility — a shift towards cleaner energy sources.
These projects are expected to strengthen Kenya’s economy by improving trade, creating employment, supporting tourism, and enhancing energy infrastructure. Stakeholders note that their successful completion will benefit not only Mombasa but also spur growth across the wider East African region.
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