Transformer vandalization can become a big problem for Kenyan development

Last week, the transformer near our energy kiosk at Kamahuha was vandalized. Some bad guys pulled down the transformer and removed everything there was. They seemed interested in two things: the coolant inside the transformer and the copper wire. Below are pictures taken at the scene by the UNIDO energy kiosk team. It really was nasty.



Today, when visiting another energy kiosk in Kiangombe, we came across another vandalized transformer. This one only had the coolant removed - it was not completely destroyed. In both cases we were told that it will take atleast one year before the transformers are replaced.



It is said that the coolant is sold to metal fabricators who use it to cool their welding machines. The copper is recycled and sold into the local market. Either way, this trend will most probably reverse all the gains of the rural electrification program in Kenya. The vandals are well versed with high power installation technology, hence it is feared that the staff or former staff of the power companies might be involved in this mayhem

Kiangombe

Kiangombe is located 4km east of Kerugoya town. Within this area lies a small village called Kibai which straddles the Mukengeria river.

At one of the small waterfalls, UNIDO in conjuction with the local community and the Ministry of Energy have put up a microhydro power generation facility that produces about 2KW of electric power.

This power is taken to an energy kiosk where the energy is used to run various services that serve the community e.g. recharging LED lamps and ICT services

We recently had to reconstruct a more robust dam at this site after the previous one was swept away by rain. It should resume operation by February 2008

Project Maps

Below is a map of the different lighting up Kenya projects



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