EU and Kenya launch ‘I’ve Got the Power’ campaign to boost clean energy access

The European Union (EU) has launched the I’ve Got the Power campaign in Kenya, highlighting ongoing cooperation between the two partners on clean energy.

The campaign focuses on how EU-supported projects are expanding electricity connections and promoting renewable solutions across the country.

The EU says the campaign aims to show the results of initiatives carried out under its Global Gateway strategy, a framework for European investments abroad.

In Kenya, this includes the Last Mile Connectivity Programme, which has been working to connect households, schools, and small businesses located near distribution transformers to the national grid.

The programme currently covers 32 counties and is part of Kenya’s plan to achieve universal electrification.

Access to reliable electricity remains uneven in Kenya, especially in rural and semi-rural areas.

Many families and businesses still rely on kerosene lamps or diesel generators, which are expensive and polluting.

The EU notes that grid connections can lower household costs, provide cleaner energy, and reduce the risks linked with traditional fuels.

For schools and health centres, a steady power supply is essential for teaching, refrigeration of vaccines, and the use of basic medical equipment.

At the launch, Henriette Geiger, EU Ambassador to Kenya, said the campaign was meant to connect the idea of renewable energy with everyday realities.

“The transition to renewable energy is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it’s about creating a more sustainable future for the people, the planet, and local economies. Through this campaign, we want people to not only understand the importance of sustainable energy but also to realise how this transition can positively impact their lives and future,” she said.

The campaign features stories of Kenyans who have experienced these changes firsthand.

Austin, a fashion designer in Nairobi, says reliable electricity allows his workshop to operate without interruptions, helping him keep up with client orders.

Catheline, a boda boda rider, now uses an electric bike for deliveries, lowering her expenses on fuel while maintaining a steady income. Both examples are used to demonstrate how renewable energy can support small enterprises and individual livelihoods.

Kenya is among African countries investing in renewable energy to meet rising demand while limiting dependence on fossil fuels.

According to the government, more than three-quarters of the country’s electricity already comes from renewable sources, mainly geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar.

However, millions of Kenyans remain off the grid, and the cost of connections continues to be a barrier for some households.

The I’ve Got the Power campaign is being positioned as part of a wider continental effort.

The Scaling up Renewables in Africa pledging campaign, jointly led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, calls for greater investment in renewable energy across Africa.

While the continent holds significant renewable resources, more than half a billion people still live without access to electricity.

By linking local stories with larger development goals, the campaign seeks to illustrate both progress and remaining challenges.

For the EU, Kenya’s experience is an example of how international partnerships can support national energy plans.

For Kenya, it is a reminder that reaching universal access will require continued investment and collaboration.

Further information on the campaign and the featured stories can be found at energyoftomorrow. ke.