Kisumu City has taken a major step toward smart urban transformation following the commissioning and handover of its first-ever smart traffic street lights and integrated CCTV management system, aimed at improving road safety, easing congestion, and strengthening surveillance.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Friday, February 27, 2026, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o described the project as a significant milestone in the modernisation of the city’s transport and security infrastructure.
Nyong’o acknowledged the collaboration between the county government, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), contractors, and city management teams in delivering the project, terming it a crucial intervention for a rapidly expanding urban centre.
“This is a major step forward in the modernisation of Kisumu’s urban systems. The installation and operationalisation of these traffic control lights and the integrated CCTV surveillance system signals our transition toward a smarter, safer, and more efficient city,” he said.
The newly installed system covers key junctions along the Kisumu Boys–Mamboleo section of the A1 Road and introduces automated traffic signal coordination alongside real-time surveillance to monitor road activities.
Traffic congestion and accidents
Nyong’o noted that for years, traffic congestion, accidents, and limited monitoring capacity have posed challenges to the growing city, which has continued to attract increased economic activity and population movement across the Lake Region.
He said the smart traffic lights will streamline vehicle movement, reduce congestion at busy intersections, and significantly minimise accidents once fully programmed and operational.
“The CCTV management system will strengthen law enforcement, enhance emergency response, deter criminal activities, and improve overall public safety,” he added, warning that offenders who previously escaped detection would now be easily tracked.
The governor further directed the Kisumu City Department to ensure the system operates continuously, emphasising that proper management and maintenance would determine its long-term impact.
Kisumu County Deputy Governor Mathews Owili said the commissioning marks a decisive shift toward intelligent transport systems and structured urban mobility.
“As a rapidly growing intermediary city, Kisumu continues to experience increased vehicular flow. This integrated, ultra-modern traffic management system comes at a critical time to enhance efficiency, safety, and order on our roads,” Owili said.
He urged motorists, boda boda operators, and pedestrians to observe traffic regulations and respect the newly installed signals.
On his side, KeNHA Director General Luka Kimeli said the project forms part of the broader Kisumu Boys–Mamboleo dual carriageway upgrade designed to improve connectivity and road safety within the city.
Kimeli noted that the intelligent traffic signal systems installed at Kisumu Boys, Patel Flats, and Kondele junctions have already started delivering measurable benefits, including smoother traffic flow, reduced congestion, shorter travel time, and improved pedestrian safety, especially for school children.
The project marks the first-ever installation and launch of smart traffic street lights in the lakeside city, signalling Kisumu’s transition toward a technology-driven urban management system as leaders push to transform it into a fully smart city.
