Kendu Bay Beach Illuminated: Solar Street Lamps Deter Hippos, Boost Business
Kendu Bay residents can now breathe a sigh of relief as the Kwame Otiende Foundation installs solar street lamps, aiming to curb hippopotamus invasions and boost local businesses. The foundation, established by Kwame Otiende, has launched a project to illuminate the beach area, previously shrouded in darkness.
The lack of street lights in Kendu Bay had encouraged hippopotamus invasions, posing risks to residents. George Kimuri, a member of the Kendu Bay Beach Management Unit (BMU), believes the new lights will deter these incidents. Fishermen and fishmongers, who previously conducted their business in the dark, can now operate with improved safety. Alice Koliech, a trader, expects the lights to enable them to trade for longer hours in the evening.
The street lighting programme, coordinated by Wyclife Kauma, aims to revive the deteriorating Kendu Bay Beach. It is part of the foundation's mission to improve the livelihoods of area residents through fisheries and business empowerment. Odero Lore, Vice Chairman of Kendu Bay BMU, welcomed the initiative, stating that criminals had taken advantage of the darkness to commit crimes in the area.
The Kwame Otiende Foundation's solar streetlight installation project at Kendu Bay Beach is set to enhance safety, boost local businesses, and deter wildlife invasions. The community anticipates improved security and longer trading hours, marking a significant step towards reviving the beach area.
