Kampala ghettos to get 110 solar streetlights under new safety drive
The lighting of the ghettos comes at a timely moment. Balimwezo said the initiative forms part of his administration’s commitment to improving public infrastructure in underserved communities.
Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga. (File photo)
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Residents of Kampala’s informal settlements are set to benefit from the installation of 110 solar-powered streetlights under a new initiative aimed at improving security, supporting businesses and enhancing public safety.
The project was unveiled by Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga during a special Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) council meeting held at City Hall on July 2, 2026.
The solar lights will be installed in selected informal settlements and business centres, including Katwe in Makindye Division, Kabowa in Rubaga Division, Kazo-Angola in Kawempe Division, Kamwokya in Central Division and Mutungo in Nakawa Division, by Village Energy. Studies indicate that socio-economic hardships are key drivers of criminal vulnerability.
In a recent incident, Katwe police arrested six suspects in Kabowa in connection with panga-wielding groups operating on boda bodas and targeting residents during peak hours between 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm.
The lighting of the ghettos comes at a timely moment. Balimwezo said the initiative forms part of his administration’s commitment to improving public infrastructure in underserved communities.
"Our administration shall continue advocating for the expansion of public lighting, particularly within informal settlements and underserved communities commonly known as ghettos," Balimwezo said.
He noted that improved lighting would help reduce crime while creating safer neighbourhoods, especially for women, children and other vulnerable residents.
"Well-lit communities discourage crime, improve business activity, promote public confidence and create safe neighbourhoods for women, children and all residents," he added.
Under the partnership, the organisations will donate 110 Philips solar-powered street lights for installation in vulnerable communities across the city.
"The project is to make sure that the streets of Kampala, especially the ghettos that have been in the dark, can glow again," Nambasa said.
She expressed optimism that the project would improve security while extending business hours in the targeted areas.
"We hope to make sure that residents in those areas can confidently go back home at night without fear of danger. We also hope that residents will be able to shop and interact within their communities without fear, while ensuring the safety of the business community," she said.
Nambasa added that the project will also create employment opportunities for young people. “Ten scholarships have been awarded to two youths drawn from the beneficiary communities to receive training in the installation, repair and maintenance of the solar lighting systems.”
"These youths are going to be trained by Elite on the installation, repair and management of the solar lights, and they can also be incorporated by KCCA to help in executing other duties," she explained.
Some of the installations have already begun. New Vision established that at least two solar-powered streetlights have already been installed and are operational at Katwe Market in Makindye Division.
However, KCCA executive director Sharifah Buzeki, who welcomed the project, cautioned the council to uphold transparency in the implementation of donor-funded projects.
"Your Worship, I advise that donors must be tapped and documented for transparency and all their promises must be put in writing. Also take note that any donations of more than sh200 million must go through the Solicitor General," Buzeki said.
Meanwhile, residents welcomed the project, saying improved lighting would enhance security and boost business activities.
Charles Mugenyi, a trader at Katwe Market, said the solar lights would reduce electricity costs while improving safety.
"If he can deliver even on half of his promises, I think Kampala will benefit. These free lights increase our savings because we have been paying for electricity. We are thankful to the new Lord Mayor," he said.
Levis Ssemakula, manager of Katwe Market, said the market had already benefited from two functioning solar lights.
"Our city has lacked services for a long time. These initiatives will improve our security, especially by reducing mugging and pickpocketing," he said.
John Gumisiriza, a resident of Kasule zone in Katwe, said criminals had been taking advantage of poorly lit areas.
"The lights will chase away the darkness where criminals have been hiding, especially around Lufula near the mosque," he said.
Sarah Kawooya said traders who receive merchandise at night would particularly benefit from improved lighting, while Promise Mbabazi of Mutungo said the lights would illuminate corridors previously left in darkness, making it easier for residents to detect suspicious activity.
Residents expressed optimism that the project would be implemented as promised and contribute to making Kampala’s informal settlements safer and more vibrant.