By Joel Clinton
The residents of Korando A in Kisumu have been living in darkness for the past month. Electricity blackouts have become a daily routine, often striking without warning and lasting for hours, sometimes days. And when the power does return, it flickers weakly, barely enough to light a bulb, let alone run essential appliances. The community is currently in darkness for the 4th consecutive day.
This unreliable electricity supply has had a devastating impact on the community. Local shop owner, Mama Achieng’, who runs a small dairy and frozen goods store, has suffered massive losses. “I’ve thrown away stock worth over 20,000 shillings in the last three weeks. The fridge can’t keep milk fresh, and customers no longer trust me,” she laments, pointing at her half-empty fridge.
It’s not just the businesses that are hurting. Families have lost valuable appliances, TVs, radios, blenders, all fried by sudden power surges and outages. “My TV blew up last week after the lights came back on suddenly. I had saved for months to buy it,” says Otieno, a boda boda rider and father of three.
This line also serves key government installations like Kodiaga Prison, which depends on electricity heavily to enhance the security of the prisoners. Despite having a backup generator, it cannot last that long, as one of the prison guards says. The line also serves two communication boosters,one for Safaricom and another for Airtel.
Despite numerous complaints, KPLC’s response has been indifferent at best. Residents say they have called, emailed, and even visited the Kisumu KPLC offices, but all they get are vague promises and reference numbers that lead nowhere. “They told us a team would be sent to investigate. That was two weeks ago. No one came,” says, Calvin Sawo, a youth leader in the area.
What’s more frustrating is that the bills still arrive on time, often with inflated estimates. “How do we owe for power we never used?” asks Ouma, a welder. “They are quick to disconnect, but slow to respond when there’s a real issue.”
The people of Korando A are tired. Tired of being ignored, of losing their livelihoods, and of living in constant uncertainty. They are now calling on the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and county leaders to intervene and hold KPLC accountable.
