Rural urban centres in Nyandarua County are set to benefit from solar-powered floodlights following the launch of an ambitious lighting programme by Nyandarua Woman Representative Ms. Faith Gitau. The initiative seeks to restore lighting in key trading centres that have remained in darkness for over a year.
The project comes after floodlights previously installed by the County Government stopped functioning due to lack of maintenance and failure to settle electricity bills. The outage forced many traders to close their businesses early, citing insecurity linked to poorly lit streets and market areas.
The prolonged darkness had significantly affected economic activities, with traders reporting reduced customer flow and increased cases of theft and mugging in several centres across the county.
Githabai MCA Rimui Kaiyani had, late last year, demanded a statement in the County Assembly seeking accountability on the status of lighting projects undertaken since 2022. The MCA requested details on the number of floodlights installed in each ward, how many were non-functional, and the reasons behind their failure.
In response to the persistent challenges, Ms. Gitau opted for solar-powered floodlights as a sustainable alternative to grid-dependent systems. She noted that the new approach would eliminate recurring electricity bills that previously led to disconnections by Kenya Power.
Among the first trading centres to benefit from the programme are Mutonyora in Kinangop, Mawingu in Kipipiri, and Kaptein in Olkalou, with more areas expected to be covered in subsequent phases.
Speaking during the commissioning of a solar floodlight at Mawingu Centre on Saturday, Ms. Gitau said improved lighting in rural markets and known crime hotspots would enhance security and boost local economies.
“Small-scale traders can now extend their business operating hours, grow the night economy, and ultimately increase their incomes,” she said. She added that the improved lighting would deter criminals who have been taking advantage of darkness to target residents, particularly in the lower parts of Mawingu town.
To ensure sustainability of the project, Ms. Gitau said the contractor responsible for installation will remain on site for six months to monitor performance and address any technical issues that may arise.
She further revealed plans to lobby for the construction of modern markets in rural trading centres to improve working conditions for small-scale traders. Additionally, she emphasized the need to provide water infrastructure to enhance hygiene standards within the markets.
Residents have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that it will curb insecurity and revive economic activity. Ithagi Njoroge, a resident of Mawingu, said the installation of high-mast solar floodlights would help end frequent mugging incidents in the area.
Another resident, Francis Gitau, urged leaders to extend the project to Kinamba trading centre in Kinangop, noting that the existing electricity-powered floodlight has been non-functional for over a year without repair.
by Kimani Tirus
