The Ruiru Municipality, in Kiambu County, has commenced a comprehensive servicing and repair program for street lighting infrastructure across the Central Business District, addressing months of complaints from residents and business owners about inadequate nighttime illumination.
The municipal maintenance team, working in collaboration with Kenya Power technicians, began the ambitious project last week, targeting over 150 street light fixtures along major thoroughfares, including Ruiru-Kiambu Road, Githunguri Road, and the bustling market areas.
Municipal Manager Joanne Kihori announced that the project encompasses complete electrical system overhauls, replacement of damaged LED bulbs, repair of vandalized fixtures, and installation of energy-efficient lighting solutions. The initiative is expected to cost approximately Sh3.8 million and will be completed within six weeks.
“Public safety is our top priority, and proper street lighting is fundamental to creating a secure environment for our residents and visitors,” Kihori stated during a site inspection on Tuesday. “Many of these lights have been non-functional for months due to technical issues and vandalism. We’re not just fixing them; we’re upgrading to more durable, energy-efficient systems.”
The repair programme addresses critical areas where poor lighting has created security concerns, particularly around bus stops, pedestrian crossings, and commercial areas that remain active after dark. Several fixtures will be fitted with motion sensors and anti-vandalism casings to prevent future damage.
Local business owner Peter Kamau, who operates a pharmacy along Ruiru-Kiambu Road, welcomed the initiative. “The darkness has been affecting business, especially for customers who come in the evening,” he explained. “Some people were afraid to walk here at night because of poor visibility. These repairs will definitely boost evening trade and make everyone feel safer.”
Resident Agnes Kimanthu, who commutes daily through the CBD, expressed relief about the improvements. “Walking home from work has been quite challenging, especially during the rainy season when it gets dark early,” she said. “We’ve had incidents of petty theft in poorly lit areas, so having functional streetlights will make a huge difference for all of us, particularly women and elderly residents.”
The municipality has also established a reporting system for residents to flag faulty streetlights, ensuring prompt maintenance response and sustainable lighting infrastructure throughout Ruiru CBD.
By Andrew Mwasaru
