Residents of Mghange Dawida and Lushangonyi in Taita Taveta County have welcomed the rollout of a new solar-powered street lighting project. The initiative is expected to enhance security, stimulate local businesses, and create a safer environment for students after years of the areas being plunged into darkness at night.
The KSh 8 million project is a collaborative partnership between the Taita Taveta County Government and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC). It will see the installation of 44 solar-powered streetlights across the two trading centers and along surrounding transit roads within the next 60 days.
For many residents of Lushangonyi, the project represents a long-awaited solution to the persistent insecurity that has plagued the area for years. Locals noted that poorly lit roads have previously made pedestrians easy targets for criminals, with frequent incidents of robbery, assault, and even fatalities leaving many afraid to move around after dark.
“We have lived in fear for a long time,” said one resident. “Many people avoid walking at night because the roads are too dark and unsafe. These lights will help restore our confidence and improve security.”
Local business owners are also optimistic, expecting the new infrastructure to extend trading hours. This will allow customers to shop safely in the evening, ultimately boosting revenues for small and medium-sized enterprises.
In neighboring Mghange Dawida, residents highlighted that the benefits would extend far beyond security, particularly noting the positive impact on education. Community elder Mzee Alfred Magiri emphasized that well-lit streets would provide students with a safer environment to commute home and study in the evening without fear.
“This project is going to change things for our children,” Magiri said. “With better lighting, students will be able to travel and study safely, while businesses will simultaneously benefit from increased evening activity.”
Furthermore, residents welcomed assurances that local youth would be prioritized for employment during the construction phase, ensuring the project provides immediate economic relief to the host communities.
During the official project handover, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Energy, Arch. Martin Tairo Maseghe, directed the contractor to prioritize hiring local laborers and to actively involve the community throughout the implementation phase.
REREC representative Pauline Mwangemi reiterated the corporation’s commitment to supporting grassroots initiatives that improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development across the country.
The project was officially launched in the presence of area MCA Hon. Anselim Mwadime, County Energy Director Mwaxwell Mwashighadi, and other local leaders, all of whom pledged to closely monitor construction to ensure it is completed on schedule.
