The Trans Nzoia County Government, in collaboration with the National Government and development partners, is in the final stages of implementing the Kenya Informal Settlement Improvement Project Phase Two (KISIP2)—a transformative infrastructure project targeting five informal settlements in the county.
Residents of Kipsongo, Shanti, Matisi, Tuwan, and Mitume are expected to benefit significantly from the installation of five high mast floodlights, each standing at 30 meters high. The initiative is part of the small works component of KISIP2, which is co-funded by the World Bank, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and International Development Association (IDA).
Speaking during a project inspection, Edith Baraza, the County KISIP2 Coordinator, emphasized the goal:
“The project is about transforming lives. It will improve infrastructure—especially street lighting—to address insecurity and enhance accessibility in these underserved settlements.”
🟢 Key Project Milestones:
✔️ Installation of five high mast floodlights in five informal settlements.
✔️ 95% of construction work complete.
✔️ Final connection to electricity underway by Kenya Power contractors.
Security, Business, and Education to Benefit
The high mast floodlights are expected to drastically improve night-time visibility, reduce criminal activities, and extend hours for local businesses and educational facilities.
🗨️ Moses Karanja, Chairperson of the PTA at Matisi Friends Girls Secondary School, highlighted the safety benefits:
“We have worried about students’ safety, especially after evening prep. This lighting will make the area safer for girls and encourage better academic performance.”
Similarly, James Amukaya, Chairperson of Tuwan Water and Sanitation Services, noted the economic impact:
“Lighting up the area will help small-scale traders and vendors operate longer hours. We expect to see more economic activity and fewer crimes.”
🚀 Empowering Youth Through Local Opportunities
Beyond physical infrastructure, KISIP2 has also created job opportunities for local youth during the construction and installation phase.
🗣️ Ramadhan Kweyu, Chairperson of the Tuwan Grievance Redress Committee, appreciated the project’s inclusive approach:
“This project has provided jobs to many young people in these settlements, helping reduce unemployment while also building community ownership of the development process.”
⚡ Final Works and Looking Ahead
According to Jimmy Malanga, County Electrical Engineer and member of the County Project Coordination Team (CPCT), the remaining work is minimal:
“We are now at 95% completion. Within the next two days, the floodlights will be powered and fully operational.”
Once lit, the high mast floodlights will serve as a beacon of safety, opportunity, and urban renewal, particularly in areas that have long suffered from neglect and insecurity.
📌 Transforming Urban Informal Settlements
The KISIP2 project in Trans Nzoia County demonstrates the power of collaborative development between local authorities, national government, and international partners.
✔️ It’s not just about lights—it’s about empowering communities, improving urban planning, and ensuring that no one is left behind in Kenya’s development journey.
As the county awaits the full activation of the floodlights, one thing is clear: a brighter future is now within reach for thousands living in Trans Nzoia’s informal settlements.
