Kirinyaga County is experiencing a surge in night-time economic activity following the rollout of street lighting and floodlight projects across major towns and trading centres.

The initiative, led by the county government, has transformed several urban areas into safer and more vibrant commercial hubs, enabling a shift towards a 24-hour economy.

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More than 165 floodlights have been installed in towns, shopping centres and markets across the county.

The intervention, implemented through the Department of Transport, Roads, Public Works and Housing in Kirinyaga County, has significantly improved security and allowed traders to extend business hours, with some now operating until midnight and others running throughout the night.

Governor Anne Waiguru said the lighting programme is part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic growth and urban development across the county.

She noted that all major towns have recorded increased night-time activity following the installation of the floodlights.

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

County Executive Committee Member for Roads, Transport, Public Works and Housing Jared Migwi said the programme is designed to improve the business environment by enabling longer trading hours and enhancing safety.

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

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

Migwi further noted that the lighting initiative complements other flagship developments, including the ongoing construction of the Sagana Industrial Park.

“The Governor remains fully committed to uplifting the economic status of Kirinyaga residents. The lighting programme complements other flagship projects, including the ongoing construction of the Sagana Industrial Park,” he said.

Across the county, traders and residents say the impact is already visible. Many report improved safety, increased customer flow and higher earnings as night-time commerce expands.

Jennifer Waruguru, a trader at Ngurubani market, said the new lighting has reduced insecurity and improved business conditions.

Eunice Kiragu said traders now enjoy greater peace of mind and flexibility in operations.

“I am able to leave my belongings without worry and still find them safe. We can now close at 10 pm or even beyond, unlike before when we used to close by 7 pm or earlier,” Mrs Kiragu said.

At Karima in Kariti Ward, Bodaboda Association Chairman Benson Karimi said the floodlights have transformed operations, particularly by improving safety at night.

“Before, there was a lot of mugging due to darkness, and we could not stay late, closing by 7 pm, but now we operate 24 hours, and we are very grateful to our Governor Anne Waiguru for this initiative,” Karimi said.

In Kagio town, traders also reported increased customer activity and improved confidence in doing business at night.

Nancy Njeri said she can now operate even past midnight without fear.

“I can now operate even at midnight, and thugs who used to roam around have completely disappeared,” she said.

Jecinta Muthoni, a banana seller, said the lighting has improved visibility and boosted customer trust.

“I am now able to clearly see what I am selling, customers have more confidence in me, and they are many. This means more business and more money in my pocket,” she said.

The county government says the expansion of the lighting programme will continue as part of efforts to strengthen urban economies and support local livelihoods.