In a major move to modernize schools and promote sustainable energy, President William Ruto on Sunday announced a Sh45 billion project to install solar systems in 3,200 schools nationwide.
The unveiling took place at Alliance High School in Kikuyu Constituency during celebrations marking the institution’s 100th anniversary.
The President described the programme as “significant and consequential,” saying it will reduce schools’ dependence on firewood and other non-renewable energy sources for lighting, cooking, and other daily needs.
Ruto explained that the Ministries of Education and Energy are implementing the programme together, with financial backing from Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB).
He praised the bank for its role in facilitating the project, stating, “It is not always easy to negotiate with banks. KCB has extended a credit facility with a 30 per cent discount to enable us solarize our schools and reduce carbon emissions.”
A pilot phase covering 266 schools has already been completed, proving the project’s feasibility and paving the way for nationwide implementation. “With the pilot project carried out in 266 schools complete, we are now going to roll out the programme. In the next one year or so, we should have solarized all our schools,” he said.
The solar initiative is expected to produce up to 780 megawatts of electricity, enhancing Kenya’s renewable energy capacity and lowering school operational costs.
On questions about surplus power during school breaks, Ruto directed, “I know there have been discussions on what happens to power generated when schools are not in session. My instructions to the Ministry of Energy is that you buy that electricity even if it is at a discount.”
The President emphasized that the programme supports Kenya’s wider goals on climate change, sustainable development, and forest conservation, noting that many schools currently rely on firewood for cooking, which drives deforestation.
Speaking at the centenary event of Alliance High School, established in 1926 by Protestant missionaries led by Reverend John William Arthur, Ruto stressed the transformative power of education.
“We must develop our capacity through education. There is absolutely no reason Kenya cannot be as good as those in the developed world,” he said.
He further cited his engagements with leaders from Singapore and Malaysia as evidence of Kenya’s potential for rapid growth, noting, “In all those instances, I came to the conclusion that Kenya can be as good as them.”
He highlighted the pivotal role of science and technology in shaping the country’s future, adding, “Science and tech is going to play a critical role.”
The event drew prominent figures including Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, and Education Principal Secretary Prof Julius Bitok.
