Poor Street Lighting Hampering Kabale's Night Economy

Kabale Municipality is experiencing a sluggish night economy, with many businesses shutting down shortly after sunset due to insufficient street lighting.

For over three years, significant areas of the town have been poorly lit, fostering an environment of insecurity that discourages residents from venturing out or conducting business after dark. This stark contrast to Kabale’s past, once known for its vibrant nightlife extending into the early morning hours, has diminished.

Residents express frustration, with Timothy Niwamanya and Yarendi Yesuariho noting that Kabale’s night economy lags behind other regional towns. They attribute this slowdown directly to the lack of adequate lighting, which compromises safety and makes nighttime commerce difficult.

Concerns about personal safety are also high, with reports of attacks by machete-wielding individuals, particularly affecting those living away from the town center. “The town is too dark at night. There is no business and it is not safe to move around,” stated some residents, adding, “We are being attacked by men with machetes at night. The darkness has given them an opportunity.”

However, some locals like Job Namanya perceive a gradual recovery, observing an increase in night events and a return to a more vibrant atmosphere compared to previous years. Kigezi Region Police spokesperson Nelson Tumushime confirmed that enhanced trade order has spurred night businesses, though this has indeed introduced new security challenges. The police are responding with increased night patrols.

Michael Kyakashari, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Kabale District, acknowledged the growth in the night economy, partly due to the town’s border proximity and joint security efforts. Nevertheless, he conceded that inadequate street lighting remains a significant impediment to both safety and economic potential. “The night economy is growing, but poor lighting is still a big challenge and a security risk,” he commented.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/364003/poor-street-lighting-slows-kabales-night-economy