THE Lusaka City Council (LCC) has intensified the installation of advanced solar-powered streetlights across the city as part of efforts to enhance public security and support the growth of a 24-hour economy.

The project involves the installation of modern all-in-one solar streetlight systems designed to provide reliable and energy-efficient lighting on major roads and in public spaces.

As part of the programme, the council is also replacing old solar streetlights, many of which became non-functional after their batteries were stolen by vandals.

According to the council, the new streetlights combine the solar panel, battery and LED light source into a single compact unit, eliminating the need for extensive underground wiring and reducing maintenance costs.

“The Lusaka City Council (LCC) has intensified the installation of advanced solar-powered streetlights across the city as part of efforts to improve urban illumination, enhance road safety, and support the growth of a 24-hour economy. Through the Department of Engineering and Infrastructure Development, the Council is deploying modern ‘all-in-one’ solar streetlight systems. The upgrade also includes the phased removal of old solar lights, many of which became non-functional following the theft of batteries by vandals. The new all-in-one solar lights integrate the solar panel, battery, and LED light source into a single compact unit. This design eliminates the need for complex and costly underground wiring and reduces long-term maintenance requirements,” the council stated.

LCC Public Relations Manager Chola Mwamba said so far, the advanced solar-powered streetlights have been installed along Mosi-o-Tunya Road and Haile Selassie Road.

She said the next phase of the project will cover Independence Road, Great East Road, Lake Road and Ben Mwiinga Road as the council continues expanding the programme across the city.

“The new lighting system offers several key advantages. It provides enhanced public safety and crime deterrence through consistent, high-lumen illumination in public spaces and along major roads, which helps reduce nighttime road traffic accidents. The lights are fitted with state-of-the-art optical lenses that provide uniform light distribution across roadways and pedestrian walkways, thereby minimizing light pollution and glare while maximizing visibility for both drivers and pedestrians,” stated Mwamba.

“In addition, the integrated design ensures cost-effectiveness by lowering both installation costs and ongoing maintenance, resulting in more efficient use of Council resources. To date, solar-powered streetlights have been installed on Mosi-o-Tunya Road and Haile Selassie Road. The next phase of the project will extend to Independence Road, Great East Road Lake Road, and Ben Mwiinga Road. Lusaka City Council remains committed to creating a safer, well-lit, and economically vibrant city that promotes the wellbeing of all residents”.