The business community in Kapsokwony town in Mt. Elgon Sub County, Bungoma have complained of delays by the County government to repair streetlights and install new ones in the town to enhance security and boost business.
Speaking to KNA, a trader Peter Kiboi, said they are forced to close down their businesses early despite there being many customers due to darkness. “Our customers fear for their lives as thugs hide in darkness,” he explained.
The residents urged the County government to move with speed and light the town. “This will not only ensure our security but will also boost the economy of the area by allowing more time to carry out business till curfew commences,” Kiboi noted.
Another trader Joan Chebet accused the County government of collecting revenue every day from them but failing to install street lights thus risking their lives.
A night guard Ben Kinjo said lack of street lights also adversely affected him and colleagues as they could not see criminals.
“Most of the time we fear carrying out our duty because there is total darkness and thugs like hiding in darkness. We urgently need streetlights to serve our county effectively,” he noted.
The street lights project was launched by the first Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, the current Speaker of the Senate.
However the current County government led by Governor Wycliffe Wangamati has failed to repair them by replacing batteries that were stolen or install new ones.
By Douglas Mudambo
