Kenya’s power utility company, Kenya Power, lost 365 transformers worth KShs328 million (the equivalent of $2,466,165.38) in 2023 to vandalism.
Between May and December 2022, the company lost 76 transformers worth KSh68 million and from January 2024 to date, 78 transformers worth 78 million have been vandalised so far.
This was revealed by Dr Joseph Siror, Managing Director of Kenya Power, in a statement issued by the company.
He called for the vetting of all stakeholders engaged in the scrap metal trade including local collectors, main scrap dealers, smelters and exporters.
“We propose that all traders dealing with scrap metal, especially copper and aluminium, must declare their sources to ensure traceability and accountability,” he added.
Ing Siror hailed the provisions in the Energy Act 2019, which criminalises tampering with electricity installations, energy theft, vandalism and damage to streetlights and power infrastructure, which, he said was playing a big role in combating vandalism.
The Act prescribes a KSh5 million fine and a five-year prison sentence, or both for offenders.
He called on all stakeholders to join in rooting out the unscrupulous scrap dealers to ensure a sustainable and reliable power supply for all Kenyans.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com