Efforts to enhance safety and economic activity in Trans Nzoia County’s informal settlements received a major boost as the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project Phase 2 (KISIP2) began installing high mast flood lights in three high-density areas: Tuwan, Mitume, and Matisi.
The project, funded by the World Bank, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and the International Development Association (IDA), seeks to improve living standards by modernizing infrastructure in underserved communities.
Speaking during a site identification exercise on Friday, Trans Nzoia KISIP2 Coordinator Edith Baraza said the lighting project will significantly improve night-time security and support small businesses operating beyond daylight hours.
“The lighting of these informal settlements is a key component of the KISIP2 programme. Our goal is to uplift the living standards of residents by enhancing security and enabling economic growth,” Ms. Baraza said.
The high mast flood lights will complement ongoing upgrades that include a newly tarmacked 9-kilometre road network across the settlements.
Strategic locations were selected following consultations with local stakeholders and the technical team.
“These lights are not just for visibility. They are for dignity, safety, and giving our people the ability to live and work with confidence even after sunset,” the KISIP coordinator said.
According to Engineer Martine Maina, the contractor’s representative, installation will commence immediately.
“We’ve mobilised materials and manpower. Now that the sites are confirmed, work starts tomorrow morning. We’re committed to meeting the project timelines,” he said.
Where will high masts be installed on Kitale informal settlements?
The selected locations include Usafi area in Tuwan Ward, Stabicha Bridge in Matisi Ward, and Kirimba area in Shanti, all identified for their population density and history of poor lighting coverage.
County Electrical Engineer who also serves on the KISIP2 County Project Coordination Team (CPCT), said the project is long overdue.
“Enhancing lighting in these neighbourhoods is critical. These areas have suffered for years. This is more than infrastructure it’s a symbol of inclusion,” he said.
He praised the partnership between county and national governments and international donors.
“This is what good governance looks like. When all levels of leadership collaborate, real impact is felt on the ground.”
For many residents in the informal settlements, poor lighting has long been linked to insecurity, crime, and limited business hours.
Local Settlement Executive Committee (SEC) members, who took part in the site visits, also welcomed the move.
“People are tired of closing their shops early or walking in fear. We’ve been waiting for this,” noted one of the SEC members.
The flood lights are expected to be operational within weeks, marking a milestone in KISIP2’s broader goal to transform informal settlements into safer, more liveable spaces.
