By Sandra Blessing
Residents and industrial electricity consumers have a reason to smile after Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has successfully energized the Awendo–Isebania (Masaba) Transmission Line.
This is a major milestone in improving 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 executed 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 Sh. 1.32 billion.
A new bulk supply point at Masaba will now directly serve Isebania, Migori and Kehancha towns.
This strategic upgrade shortens Kenya Power’s distribution lines, significantly cutting down the frequency and duration of outages. The improved power quality is set to benefit key regional institutions including the Sony Sugar Factory, Migori County Referral Hospital, Getonyanya Sweet Potatoes Factory, and the Isebania One Border Post (IOBP).
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.
KETRACO Managing Director, Dr. Eng. John Mativo hailed the energization as transformative.
“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,” said Dr. Mativo.
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.
Edited by Trina Chabaibai
