Maseno residents have welcomed plans by the Kisumu County government to light up the market to improve security.
The residents, who spoke to HiviSasa on Thursday evening, welcomed the county government for heeding to their pleas adding that the move will also help them to conduct their businesses at night.
“We have really been yearning to conduct business at night but were held back due to lack of lights. We cannot wait for the lights to be installed,” said Monica Keronga, a trader at Maseno market.
The residents said that Maseno had the potential of having longer business hours but due to darkness, they could only do business until 7pm. Most traders have been using lanterns and candles for lighting.
“Whenever we wanted to extend our business hours, we could only do so up to 8pm. We had to use lanterns for lighting but this called for extra expenses since we had to buy paraffin and at times candles, but now there is hope,” said another trader, Paul Okuku.
They also said that lighting up the area will boost the security.
On Thursday, North West Kisumu Member of the County Assembly Samuel Otieno Ombogo said plans were underway to install a solar-powered security lighting system at Maseno Market.
A flood light had been installed at the market earlier but never became operational due to reasons which have never been disclosed to the locals.