In a shocking revelation, the Auditor General has disclosed that Kenya Power employees, security personnel, and fuel tanker drivers are implicated in the theft of over 1.18 million liters of diesel, valued at Ksh 207.6 million. The diesel, intended for off-grid power stations in Turkana, was reportedly siphoned off during the financial year that ended in June 2024.
The audit report, made public yesterday, detailed how those involved manipulated fuel delivery records, allowing substantial volumes of diesel to disappear from Kenya Power’s supply chain. The loss not only undermines the operational stability of the off-grid stations in the drought-prone Turkana region but also raises serious concerns about oversight and accountability within Kenya Power.
The stolen diesel was earmarked to keep the power stations running smoothly in remote areas where electricity is essential for local businesses, hospitals, and schools. However, with millions worth of fuel diverted, questions are being raised over Kenya Power’s internal controls and security measures.
The Auditor General’s report has sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans, with energy sector experts calling for immediate reforms. Lawmakers are also demanding thorough investigations to hold those responsible accountable, with some suggesting that such an incident warrants a full review of Kenya Power’s operations.
Kenya Power has yet to issue an official response, though pressure is mounting for the organization to implement stronger controls to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
