Streetlights transform Kirinyaga into 24-hour economy

DAVID WANDETO-KNA

Kirinyaga County is witnessing bustling nighttime economic activity following the installation of streetlights and floodlights across major markets and trading centres, a development that is steadily transforming the county into a vibrant 24-hour economy.

The lighting programme, which is being rolled out across key towns and growth centres, has significantly improved security, extended business hours, and created a more enabling environment for trade.

Residents can now move and conduct business safely even late into the night. More than 165 floodlights have so far been installed across major towns, shopping centres and markets, opening up spaces that were previously deserted after dusk and turning them into active economic zones.

The intervention is now directly translating into higher earnings for traders, more working hours for transport operators and increased economic circulation within local communities.

The programme, implemented through the Department of Transport, Roads, Public Works and Housing, has led to longer business hours, with some traders now operating up to midnight while others have embraced round-the-clock operations.

This shift is not only changing how business is conducted but also redefining the economic potential of small towns within the county, many of which previously relied on daytime trade.

Governor Anne Waiguru said the lighting project forms part of her administration’s broader strategy to stimulate economic growth, enhance urbanization and empower small-scale traders who form the backbone of the county’s economy.

She noted that towns where floodlights have been installed are now experiencing increased business activity at night, with more traders setting up and customers gaining confidence to shop beyond traditional hours.

“Residents and traders in Kagio, Kutus, Kerugoya, Kianyaga and Wang’uru can testify that it is now easier to transact business for longer hours at night. We intend to continue expanding this programme,” Waiguru said.

The Governor emphasized that improved lighting is not just about visibility, but about unlocking opportunities, enhancing safety and enabling residents to maximize their economic potential. 

She added that the county government is focused on ensuring that development projects directly benefit ordinary wananchi by creating practical opportunities for income generation.

County Executive Committee Member for Roads, Transport, Public Works and Housing Jared Migwi said the programme is designed to create a conducive business environment by enhancing security, reducing crime and extending trading hours.

“The objective is to light up the county to support business, improve security and ultimately boost livelihoods and the local economy,” Migwi said.

Migwi added that the county is working closely with the Kenya Power and Lighting Company to support electricity connectivity and ensure sustainability of the project.

He said the lighting programme complements other flagship projects, including the ongoing Sagana Industrial Park, which is expected to create employment opportunities, attract investors and further strengthen Kirinyaga’s economic base.

According to Migwi, such infrastructure investments are key in positioning the county as a competitive hub for trade and investment within the region.

Across the county, the impact of the lighting programme is already evident, with traders, transport operators and residents reporting improved safety, increased customer flow and rising incomes.

In towns such as Kagio, Wang’uru, Kutus, Kerugoya, Kianyaga and Sagana, business activity now extends well into the night, with hotels, retail shops, kiosks, food vendors and transport services benefiting from the extended hours.

The increased human activity has also contributed to a more vibrant and lively atmosphere in these centres, reversing the trend where towns would go quiet immediately after sunset.

For many traders, the project has marked a turning point in their businesses, offering them an opportunity to recover lost time and maximize daily earnings without necessarily increasing costs.

At Ngurubani market, Jennifer Waruguru said cases of theft, which were common before, have reduced significantly, allowing traders to operate without constant fear of losing their goods.