Residents of Ilmunkush in Kajiado East Constituency have raised alarm over what they term as neglect, saying they have remained without electricity for nearly a decade despite the presence of power lines and other infrastructure in the area.
Speaking to a local media station, community members led by Henry Karankush said repeated attempts to reach Kenya Power have been unsuccessful. To demonstrate the reality of their plight, residents were seen touching low-hanging electricity wires, a clear indication that the lines have never been connected to supply power.
The residents lamented that since the installation of the power lines ten years ago, there has been no progress to ensure they are connected. They expressed concern that some of the infrastructure has already deteriorated, with fallen poles leaving cables dangerously hanging close to the ground.
Another resident, John Kimiti, questioned why neighbouring areas enjoy electricity while Ilmunkush remains in darkness. “Just a few kilometres away in Makueni County, people have power. Yet here we are, still waiting after ten years. This is outright neglect by both the national and county governments,” he said.
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The absence of electricity has had far-reaching consequences. Residents said the nearby dispensary struggles to store medicine safely, forcing them to walk long distances in search of better medical services. Insecurity has also worsened, with frequent muggings reported in the area.
The community is now calling on their Member of Parliament, Kakuta Ole Maimai, and Kenya Power to intervene urgently and ensure that Ilmunkush is finally connected to electricity. They argue that access to power is not only a matter of convenience but a basic necessity that affects health, safety, education and economic opportunities.
By Masaki Enock
