Eldoret Municipal Council will spend Sh8 million to light the streets of the town. Speaking yesterday during a stakeholders meeting at the Eldoret council hall, town clerk Stanslas Ondimu said the street lighting project will help curb crime and boost business. He said residents have complained of increased crime in areas that are not lit.

Most of the residents have been complaining of being attacked by criminal at night at the unlit bus stages. They have asked the council to repair the traffic lights to control the traffic flow. They said most of the people who work late are the risk of being attacked by criminals, who take advantage of the darkness. "We have lost a lot of money and personnel belongings in the hands of muggers and we even fear for our women who risk being raped," said Ann Njeri, a resident of Langas.

The residents said some of the risky bus stages include Langas, Kamukunji and Huruma, which are a haven for criminals at night. They accused the council staff of harassing motorists over parking fees. "The Sh100 we are charged as parking fees is high because the council does not offer good services to the people," said Willis Kamau, a motorist. However, Ondimu said the residents have to pay the various levies to enable the council offer services. He accused most motorists in the town of avoiding to pay the parking fees adding that it illegal to do so.