Service delivery stalls in Vihiga over unpaid power bills

Vihiga county Assembly MCAs during a session on May 16, 2023. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

Operations at the Vihiga County headquarters have ground to a halt, with water supply severely disrupted as a power outage caused by unpaid electricity bills stretches into a month now.

Kenya Power disconnected electricity at several county establishments in early April over an outstanding bill running into millions, leaving county staff scrambling to carry out their duties under difficult circumstances.

Without power, officers have been forced to work from cybercafes and occasionally rely on the county's generator to access electricity for essential meetings and tasks.

Others have opted to work from home, only coming to the office briefly to clock in before seeking alternative workspaces.

"Most of our tasks require computers and electricity, but here we are, struggling without power for nearly one month," said an officer who requested anonymity.

Staff report being unable to attend to critical matters as they juggle workspace constraints and an unreliable generator power supply.

The power disconnection has not only crippled administrative functions but also affected vital services countywide. The power was also disconnected at Vihiga County Referral Hospital, markets, and water plants.

Civil society leaders led by Vihiga Civil Society Secretary General Stephen Chahasi criticised the county administration, accusing it of misplaced priorities. Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Vihiga Chapter chief executive Wycliffe Chabaya have also faulted the county for not resolving the standoff.

Kenya Power insists that all departments must clear their dues before electricity to the governor's office is restored.