Kitgum Municipality installs 32 solar street lights to boost security

2 July 2025, 5:47 pm

By Otim Moses

Kitgum Municipality has secured 32 new solar-powered streetlights, which are set to be installed in key hotspot areas this July to enhance security and improve public lighting.

His Worship Ojara Richard Okwera, the Mayor of Kitgum Municipality, said the installation, which includes both single- and double-arm solar lights, is scheduled to begin either Friday or Monday this week. The project is expected to be completed by 10 July 2025.

According to the municipality’s installation plan:

• 12 solar lights will be installed along the stretch from Yotkom to Pandwong Primary School;
• 12 more will cover the centre of Conner Mission; and
• 4 lights will be installed at the IGF gate to enhance security near Kitgum Comprehensive College.

Additionally, the municipality will temporarily install four solar streetlights at the new bus park, designed to serve the area for three to four years as a security measure while long-term plans are finalised.

Although the mayor did not provide the exact cost of the procurement, he estimated the project could be worth approximately Shs 250 million. He promised to disclose the official figure once the supplier delivers the lights.

Mayor Ojara noted that the funds have been drawn from the Kitgum Municipal Council account as part of ongoing efforts to beautify the town and support infrastructure development, including works under the USMID Project, which aims to improve the Kitgum bus park and its surroundings.

He also addressed concerns about the condition of the road leading from the Municipal Headquarters to Hilltop Cell, stating that while the planning figures for the upgrade are not yet finalised, the road is under consideration for future works, including tarmacking to high standards.