Busia: Busia County Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma has installed streetlights in major market centers to boost the 24-hour economic system and provide security for residents amid slow economic growth for small-scale traders. Speaking in Busia, Otuoma noted that in an effort to achieve this, things seem to be brightening up for residents and business owners in the town following the launch of the integrated street lighting programme in the town and its suburbs.
According to Kenya News Agency, the governor emphasized that proper lighting would empower small-scale traders, transport operators, and other informal sector players to work longer hours without fear of insecurity. ‘These lights are not just for illumination, but they are tools for development and also a source of security. We want our people to do business comfortably even up to 10 or 12 midnight. This is how we ensure safety and also stimulate our economy from the grassroots,’ he stated.
‘We are targeting a 24-hour economy and the project is a move in that direction. We want to drive away the darkness that has restricted business hours,’ he added. The impact of the initiative is already being felt in Bumala market, where traders say business hours have expanded significantly.
Veronica Adhiambo, a vendor selling omena at the market, says the security lighting has made a big difference. ‘Before the lights were installed, we would close our businesses by 7 pm because it was too dark and unsafe but now, we stay open until 9 pm. I’m making more sales and going home with more money,’ said Adhiambo.
Moreover, local transport operators are also praising the project. Geoffrey Wesonga, a matatu driver operating on the Busia-Bumala route, said the lighting has reduced cases of insecurity, especially for evening travellers. ‘Passengers now feel safer travelling late in the evening and matatu drivers feel more confident operating at night,’ noted Wesonga.
Residents are now urging the county government to extend the lighting program to other areas. For instance, Salma Nurjan, a resident of Mungachi in Busia County, called on the county government to consider extending the lighting initiative to places like Benga and Madende junction. ‘Benga and Madende junction are still in darkness and need attention. If we can get lights there too, it will help more people benefit,’ Salma said.
Busia residents are optimistic that the county government will continue to expand streetlight coverage to more villages and trading centers across the county so as to propel the residents into a prosperous and promising future.