Makueni County has introduced a far-reaching County Energy Policy, a framework that commits the region to delivering universal access to clean energy by 2028.

The launch, officiated by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr and Dan Wilcox of the British High Commission Nairobi, highlights a decisive turn towards renewable energy and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

The policy, according to county officials, is designed to shape new laws, inform development plans, and attract investment that will widen access to affordable, reliable power.

It also seeks to boost efficiency and resilience in energy supply while ensuring inclusivity in the county’s growth strategy.

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr stressed that Makueni’s progress was being achieved through long-standing cooperation with the United Kingdom.

He underlined how this partnership had touched multiple sectors, from forest restoration to healthcare, and positioned the county as a leader in climate action.

“We are restoring forest landscapes, strengthening energy and health systems, and delivering real impact for our communities,” Mutula explained.

“The launch of our County Energy Policy is a landmark achievement in our shared journey toward universal access to clean energy. Makueni is proud to lead in climate resilience and inclusive growth, and through this collaboration, we are co-creating a future that is green, healthy, and full of opportunity for every resident.”

Representing the British High Commission, Dan Wilcox described the new policy as a bold step that goes beyond words on paper, noting that it links forest restoration, clean energy, and inclusive growth into a single agenda.

He observed that the strategy demonstrates how international partnerships can translate into tangible, lasting benefits for local communities. 

“The launch of Makueni’s County Energy Policy is more than a milestone, it is a bold step toward clean energy access, climate resilience, and inclusive growth,” Wilcox noted.

“From restoring forests to unlocking renewable energy investment, this initiative is delivering real, lasting change.”

According to Wilcox, the new policy demonstrates how the Kenya–UK Strategic Partnership is building a future where communities thrive, equitably and sustainably. 

The framework is part of the United Kingdom’s Sh15.4 billion global climate and nature financing portfolio.

It follows earlier support through UK PACT, which financed the preparation of the Makueni County Energy Plan unveiled in 2024.

Discussions during the visit also touched on economic inclusion under the Sustainable Urban Economic Development programme.

Among six projects in the pipeline, the Kalamba fruit processing plant was singled out for its potential to boost agricultural productivity, improve farmer incomes, and reduce food insecurity.

The British government, through SUED, is now helping to connect Makueni with investors in agribusiness and other sectors. Officials expect these partnerships to bring new jobs and inject fresh momentum into the local economy.

By embedding clean energy access into policy and tying it to economic growth initiatives, Makueni County is positioning itself as a model for Kenya’s green transition while ensuring that development remains both inclusive and sustainable.