Hundreds throng Uhuru's Mombasa street lighting programme launch

Security officers directing residents to Makadara Grounds on January 15, 2015 where President Uhuru Kenyatta is expected to launch the National Street Lighting Plan "Powering Freedom". PHOTO | WACHIRA MWANGI | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Security agents including national police officers, county askaris and National Youth Service (NYS) personnel are strategically positioned at the ground as security is tightened for the presidential function.
  • The Sh1.2 billion Coast project will cover the central business district, Old Town, Nyali, Likoni, Majengo, Bondeni, Mbaraki, Changamwe and Kongowea and would be implemented at a cost of Sh224 million.

Hundreds of Mombasa residents have already flocked the Makadara grounds ahead of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s launch of the national street-lighting programme.

Youth and the elderly have gathered at the grounds where the President is expected to unveil the “Mwangaza Mtaani” programme plaque.

Security agents, including national police officers, county askaris and National Youth Service (NYS) personnel, are strategically positioned at the grounds as security is tightened for the presidential function.

Mombasa County Commissioner Nelson Marwa arrived at the venue early as he coordinated the final preparations to ensure the event’s success.

“We have come so early so that we do not miss anything that will happen here. This is our day to receive the goodies from our President,” Ms Amina Mwinyi, a resident of Majengo, told Nation.co.ke.

She said the lighting programme would help in curbing insecurity in Majengo, adding that women and the youth will also get job opportunities by working through the night without fear.

The Sh1.2 billion Coast project will cover the central business district, Old Town, Nyali, Likoni, Majengo, Bondeni, Mbaraki, Changamwe and Kongowea and cost Sh224 million.

The streets of Malindi, Watamu, Timboni and Gede in Kilifi County will also be lighted at a cost of Sh94, while the street lights will be installed in Ukunda, Diani and Tiwi in Kwale at Sh62 million.

A similar concept is being implemented in other counties, including Nairobi, Kisumu, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nyeri, Kiambu and West Pokot.