The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) team today paid a courtesy call to Siaya County Secretary and Head of Public Service, Mr. Joseph Ogutu, to discuss the planned county sensitization forums, identify key energy and petroleum challenges in the county, and explore areas of collaboration and partnership.
The EPRA delegation was led by Ms. Anne Kiprotich, Deputy Director for Public Education and Advocacy.
EPRA has scheduled four targeted stakeholder forums in Siaya County as follows:
1 Tuesday: National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) and Security Committees
2 Wednesday: County Government staff (capacity building on energy and petroleum issues)
3 Thursday: Siaya County LPG and petroleum dealers
4 Friday: Siaya County electricity contractors and technicians
Siaya becomes the 25th county to host this EPRA sensitization programme. Both parties expressed optimism that the partnership will benefit county staff and bring greater order and safety to energy operations.
Key issues highlighted for discussion and action include:
• Proper parking of petrol tankers
• Safe spacing of petrol stations and environmental safety concerns
• Development of frameworks for disaster preparedness and response
• Strengthened collaboration with enforcement and compliance officers
EPRA emphasized the importance of involving the county fire department in the sensitization programme to enhance disaster preparedness and mitigate future risks.
County Secretary Joseph Ogutu, representing Governor James Orengo, warmly welcomed the EPRA team and pledged full support for the successful implementation of the programme.
“We are here to support you and ensure you achieve your desired goals,” Mr. Ogutu stated.
He urged that the training place special emphasis on renewable and affordable sources of energy in line with technological advancements, noting that the Nyalore administration has made significant strides in promoting clean energy through strategic partnerships.
County Chief Officer for Energy, Dr. Nicholas Kut Ochogo, called for clear logistical arrangements to ensure successful mobilization, particularly regarding whether required personnel would be drawn from within the county.
Both parties agreed on the need for concerted efforts and a clear roadmap for effective implementation. The county government committed to mobilizing staff through its Department of Energy and Petroleum to attend the scheduled workshops.
On logistics, EPRA requested shared responsibility for transport, conference facilities, and meals during the forums.
The county government renewed its call for the implementation of long-pending street lighting projects as part of sustainable energy initiatives earlier discussed with EPRA. The authority reaffirmed its commitment to finding a lasting solution through further consultations.
Additional recommendations from county officials included:
• Promotion and adoption of electric vehicles to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and associated risks
• Strict enforcement of fuel quality standards for fuel sold in the county
• Enhanced monitoring of tanker parking and prevention of illegal siphoning that endangers residents
• Clear zoning guidelines and safe locations for LPG facilities (to be addressed during stakeholder sensitization)
EPRA clarified that its enforcement department works under the Energy and Petroleum Act to ensure security of supply and fair competition. The authority can impose surcharges or revoke licences of operators engaging in illegal or unsafe practices, in close collaboration with NEMA, the Kenya Police, and other law enforcement agencies.
Other officials present included the Director for Cabinet Affairs, Madam Zilpah Menya, alongside members of the EPRA technical team.