Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya today appeared before the Senate Standing Committee on Energy to represent the Council of Governors (CoG) during the ongoing deliberations on the Energy Amendment Bill, 2025.

Governor Natembeya strongly backed the proposed legislation, noting that its adoption would enable counties to directly benefit from the levy collected by the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC). He argued that channeling the funds toward county-level projects would spur development and enhance service delivery across the country.

“The bill offers counties a fair opportunity to invest in energy infrastructure and local development. The levy should be utilized where it’s collected at the grassroots,” Natembeya stated.

Committee members, however, questioned the Governor on how county governments could be trusted with managing the levy, citing concerns over accountability in the handling of existing county revenues.

Among those present were Senator Beatrice Ogolla (Nominated), Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale (Kakamega), and Senator Lomenen Joseph (Turkana). The session was chaired by Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga (Siaya), who emphasized the need for a transparent framework to ensure prudent use of public resources should the bill be adopted.

The committee is expected to continue its engagements with other stakeholders before preparing a comprehensive report on the proposed amendments.