The Trans Nzoia County Department of Lands, Housing, Physical Planning, and Urban Development has officially taken over a completed small-works project to enhance security and improve business hours in five informal settlements.
Funded under the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP2) by the World Bank, AFD, the National Government, and the County Government, the project, worth Ksh 27 million, saw the installation of five high-mast floodlights in Tuwan, Mitume kwa Chief, Kipsongo Primary Vocational Training, Shanti, and Matisi Girls Secondary School.
During the official handing-over meeting, SOBOCN Consultancy Resident Engineer Jorim Oduor confirmed the project’s completion and readiness for public use.
“The works are substantially complete and ready to serve the community. The contractor has delivered quality installations that will greatly benefit residents,” he said.
Trans Nzoia County KISIP2 Social Safeguards Officer Pamela Indimuli, who represented Trans Nzoia County KISIP2 project coordinator Edith Baraza, echoed the call for community involvement, stating that sensitisation efforts are necessary.
“We need SEC and GRC members to take part in educating the public on the importance of safeguarding these floodlights. The county will organise sensitisation meetings with local administration officials, including sub-county and ward administrators, chiefs, and assistant chiefs,” Indimuli explained.
The CPCT team lauded the contractor’s efforts, describing the project as one of the best executed in the county. Plans are now underway for an official commissioning.
Vandalism of government property
However, concerns have been raised about vandalism of government property within informal settlements. Architect David Waudo, a CPCT project member, urged residents to protect the floodlights, citing past instances of high-mast vandalism in the county.
“The problem cannot be solved by the Department of Public Works alone. It requires concerted efforts to ensure the security and longevity of these installations,” Waudo emphasised.
Community members welcomed the initiative, appreciating the positive impact on security and business hours. Moses Karanja, Board of Management Chairperson at Matisi Friends Girls High School, and businessman Samuel Mugendi from Tuwan Market praised the county government and its partners.
“This project is a game changer. Business hours will extend, and security concerns will be addressed. Even boda boda operators will benefit,” Mugendi noted.
