The County government of Kwale has set aside Sh 100 million for installation and reintegration of streetlights and flood lights in major trading centers in Kinango Sub County.
The public lighting project aims to strengthen security and improve business operations across the sub county.
The project that seeks to promote economic development and improve the well-being of the people will be implemented in Mwaruphesa, Malomani, Moyeni, and Mackinnon Road trading centers.
Speaking to the press during the groundbreaking ceremony at Mackinnon road trading centre Kwale County Deputy Governor (DG) Fatuma Achani said the project will provide a conducive environment for businesses that have been facing a huge setback from blackouts.
Achani said the street lighting project will enhance security and encourage 24 hour commerce besides increasing the safety and security of residents and visitors especially at night.
“The county government wants to transform the economy of the county and these streetlights are important, especially on matters of security. If business premises are secure, many investors shall make this county a business destination,” she said.
Achani added that the economy of the coastal county is growing at a fast speed following the cordial relationship the county had developed with various investors.
The DG at the same time noted that the devolved unit is finalizing plans with a Spanish firm to construct a sh17 billion water desalination center in Msambweni Sub County.
She said such collaboration will offer a lasting solution to the problem of water shortage in the sub-county and also create employment opportunities for the residents.
“We are working towards empowering our people so that they can easily put food on the table. The development records we set in the county are enough to sell our county across the globe and that will have an impact on our local economy,” Achani said.
The water desalination project will be constructed by Acciona Aqua and Swicorp firms from Spain and Saudi Arabia respectively.
She said the desalination center is expected to produce 150,000m3 of water daily, bringing to an end water shortage that has constantly hit the region for several decades.
The DG urged politicians in the county to practice mature politics and avoid divisive politics which could divide the people.
She added that the communities in the county have enjoyed peace and unity thus leading to the transformative projects by the county government.
“We must remain united as we are. This electioneering period should not divide us but rather let’s focus on our developmental agenda,”Achani said.
Achani asked leaders to sell their agenda during political rallies and not discriminate against the female gender.
She said the Constitution of 2010 allows for equal political engagements from both genders thus politicians should respect such provisions.
By Mchera Juma and Hussein Abdullahi
