Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has clarified the circumstances surrounding a prolonged power outage in Roysambu’s Kiwanja area, which sparked protests by Kenyatta University students. KPLC explained that locals resisted replacing a temporary transformer with a 200kVA permanent one. On Monday, January 27, Kenyatta University students staged a protest, blocking a section of the Thika Superhighway over a week-long blackout in their hostels. They caused significant traffic congestion, with the most affected stretch near the Unicity Mall, where students barricaded both sides of the busy roadway. Why did KU students lack power In a statement seen by TUKO.co.ke, KPLC said the issue began late 2024 when a 200kVA transformer serving Kiwanja, a residential area housing hostels and homes, failed. KPLC temporarily installed a larger 315kVA transformer to maintain the electricity supply, stressing that this was always intended as a stop-gap solution. Last week, KPLC dispatched a 200kVA transformer to the site for permanent installation and the recovery of the 315kVA transformer as guided by its policy of optimal resource utilisation.
The situation turned chaotic when locals opposed the recovery of the 315kVA transformer, accusing KPLC of neglecting their needs. A team sent to swap the transformers faced violent resistance, with angry residents hurling stones and damaging company property. “Upon commencing the disconnection of the 315kVA transformer to facilitate the swap, locals confronted the team by throwing stones, injuring several staff members, and damaging the truck that ferried the team and the new transformer to the site. The truck’s hydraulic system was damaged, wheels were punctured, and the windscreen was smashed,” read the statement in part. How are KPLC’s staff after attack The injured workers were rushed to a medical facility for treatment, and the damaged truck has since been towed for repairs. Kenya Power has strongly condemned the attacks on its staff, emphasizing that such incidents hinder the company’s ability to serve customers. “We are committed to ensuring a reliable and safe power supply for all customers.
However, the safety of our staff remains a priority. We do not condone any form of violence against our team,” the statement read. The company revealed they were collaborating with law enforcement agencies to resolve the challenges in Kiwanja and expedite the restoration of power. “Kenya Power remains committed to providing safe and adequate power supply to all its customers. Equally, the Company prioritizes the safety of all its staff as they strive to ensure electricity is available to all customers. Therefore, the Company does not condone any form of violence against its staff. We call on the public to collaborate with us as we continue to power people for better lives,” added the utility company.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
