Lilongwe City Council (LCC) has initiated a project called Adopt a Street that is aimed at ensuring that streetlights in the city are properly maintained and are functioning.
The project was launched on Thursday by City Mayor Dr Desmond Bikoko.
According to Bikoko, the city council has signed agreements with deserving companies to maintain streetlights since there are some areas in which the council lacks capacity.
“We are aware of the challenges that the city council has encountered in its efforts to provide good quality services to residents. As we are improving the service delivery, we are mindful that there are certain areas where we lack capacity and we must partner with the business community,” Bikoko said.
“Street lighting is one of those areas hence our decision. The agreements signed, provides that winning companies take up the responsibility for electricity bills, maintenance and enjoy the privilege of street adverts revenue on a cost sharing arrangements,” he added.
He further said the project will lift the financial burden on the council, and ensure that Lilongwe streets have lights at night.
“Thus, enhancing security on the street at night and adding to the city’s beauty after the sun sets. It is always embarrassing when you are on a plane that is descending at Kamuzu International Airport to look at your window and see total darkness. This initiative will change that,” he said.
The successful companies are JC Decaux, Media Alliance, Globe Internet, Afro-Projects Link Limited, CYDO/YEDEV Waste Management, Alliance One and Media Solutions Group.
The companies will take over running of the streetlights from 1st July 2017 while city council will continue to play its supervisory role.
