Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr in one of the stands during the Green Energy Promotion and Clean Cooking Advocacy Forum held at the Konza Technopolis on June 12, 2026. Photo by Gvrns Press. 
By Gov Press.
Makueni County has intensified its transition to clean energy, with Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. announcing that all newly constructed or renovated public institutions under his administration will adopt clean energy solutions and phase out the use of biomass fuels.
Speaking during the Green Energy Promotion and Clean Cooking Advocacy Forum held at the Konza Technopolis on Friday, Governor Mutula said schools, health facilities and technical training institutions remain among the county's largest consumers of firewood, a trend that continues to fuel deforestation, increase energy costs and expose communities to serious health risks.
The governor said the county government has already embarked on a comprehensive clean cooking campaign through strategic partnerships and investments in renewable energy infrastructure aimed at reducing dependence on firewood and charcoal.
“We are committed to ensuring that public institutions embrace sustainable energy solutions that protect our environment, improve public health and lower the cost of energy,” Mutula said.
He noted that the county’s clean energy agenda is guided by the Makueni County Energy Plan 2023–2032 and the Makueni Energy Policy 2025, both of which prioritize access to affordable, sustainable and reliable energy as a key driver of development.
As part of efforts to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking technologies at the household level, the governor highlighted the recent distribution of 253 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders to residents of Kikumbulyu South.
The forum also heard calls for greater investment in renewable energy and a faster transition away from fossil fuels.
Prof. Izael Pereira Da Silva, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Strathmore University, praised Makueni’s clean cooking initiative, describing it as a transformative programme that has positioned the county among Kenya’s leading examples of sustainable energy adoption.
He warned that renewed investments in coal production and continued reliance on fossil fuels pose significant threats to global climate goals and the future of the planet.
Prof. Da Silva further called for the democratisation of energy, urging governments and stakeholders to empower communities to play a more active role in both energy production and consumption.
The forum brought together county officials, development partners, technology providers, financiers, educators and Ward Energy Champions to deliberate on practical strategies for expanding access to clean cooking technologies and accelerating renewable energy adoption across Makueni County.
The discussions underscored the county’s growing commitment to sustainable development and its ambition to become a model for clean energy transition in Kenya.
