An elderly woman in Kapsabet, Nandi County, is living her dream after his humble home was connected to the electricity grid.

Affectionately referred to as Gogo, the elderly woman, tired of relying on paraffin to light her home, made her way to the Kenya Power Kapsabet office, hoping to finally have electricity. She walked into the office with quiet determination, assisted by a middle-aged woman who held her hand.

Her visit caught the attention of Josephat Mengich, an officer in the Business Development Department. The team wondered why none of her children had accompanied her or come to make the enquiry on her behalf. They would later learn that Gogo had lost her only son and was now living alone.

Despite her circumstances, she had not given up on her wish to have electricity. She had been setting aside small amounts on her Inua Jamii, and by the time she walked into the office, she had managed to save KShs. 5,000 towards the connection.

When Mengich learnt of her story, he shared it with his colleagues, proposing that they come together to help her realise this simple but deeply held wish.

The response was heartwarming. Following a site visit, verification and preparation of a quotation, the Kapsabet team came together and raised the full amount needed. The quotation has since been paid in full, bringing Gogo a step closer to having electricity in her home.

Perhaps the most touching part of her visit was what she told Mengich as she prepared to leave: “Kijana wangu, nimechoka kununua mafuta taa.”

For Gogo, having electricity will mean finally being able to light her home without having to worry about buying paraffin. It is a small change that will make a real difference in her daily life.

Her story is also a reminder that sometimes, all it takes to change someone’s circumstances is for another person to notice, listen and care.