The Kisii County government has rolled out phase II of the integrated street lighting programme targeting 160 market centres.
In the first phase, the county installed 530 solar lights and 50 high mast lights in a project aimed at improving working conditions for traders and promoting the growth of a 24-hour economy.
Deputy Governor Joash Maangi launched the second phase of the project this week where the county, through the department of Lands, Physical Planning and Urban Development, is installing an additional 100 lights.
So far, 75 markets have been lit with solar-powered lights and high mast lights (mulika mwizi).
“Our plan is to light up all major market centres in Kisii County to allow traders operate in a secure environment. Now, boda boda operators can work for longer hours because their pickup stations are well lit,” said Maangi.
The DG commissioned solar lights at Nyabisiongoro, Omoringamu, Tendere, Nyamache Junction and Riobonyo market centre in Bomachoge Borabu and Bomachoge Chache sub-counties.
Other centres that have been lit include Gesabakwa, Ibacho, Ramasha and Ikorongo in Nyaribari Masaba. Other centres are in Bobasi, Kitutu Chache North, South Mugirango and Bonchari sub-counties.
The DG noted that a total of 1,200 lamps have been installed by Kenya Power in Kisii town significantly improving security and trading conditions.
CEC Moses Onderi expressed concern over rising cases of vandalism targeting the lights installed by the county government and called on market committees to safeguard the project.
“We are experiencing massive vandalism of these lights across the county which is a worry. Most affected are high mast lights but a few suspects have been arrested and arraigned in court. We have intensified engagements with bodaboda and market committees on how to stem this vice,” said Onderi.
He announced that the county would install 100 solar lights on foundations built during the last financial year.