Solar project to ease energy costs for fishers in Homa Bay, Siaya

By HEZRON OCHIEL

HOMA BAY AND SIAYA: Fishing communities in two counties within Nyanza are set to benefit from solar powered energy projects worth Sh232 million.

The two-year We! Hub project on beaches within Homa Bay and Siaya, and dubbed “Umeme kwa Wote” (energy for all) will help fishing communities rent battery-powered luminaries and energy friendly lamps at affordable rates.

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The fishing community welcomed the project, saying the waterproof lamps would make fishing during rainy seasons easier, which would in turn improve their production.

The project implemented by Osram – a German company – is funded by German Siemens Foundation.

Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda said the project has come at a time when fishing communities are facing myriad challenges, especially increased temperatures occasioned by global warming.

“The project will reduce the cost of obtaining energy and reduce the effects of global warming while reducing smoke-related illnesses,” he said.

While launching the project on Monday at Honge Beach in Usenge, Siaya County, Peter Laier, the managing board member responsible for technology at Osram, said the expansion underlines the acceptance of Germany’s innovative approach in solving the electricity deficit.