From darkness to light — Solar power illuminates crime-hit streets to spearhead security initiatives in Johannesburg

"A solar-powered lighting initiative is transforming daily life for residents in Johannesburg, where years of darkness caused by power outages and copper wire theft had left communities vulnerable to crime. The project, led by the Jozi My Jozi NGO, uses renewable energy solutions to bring light to areas long affected by unreliable electricity and damaged infrastructure. “The solar light project is one of our key projects from a safety and security workstream,” a project manager said. “Johannesburg has been dark for a number of years… one of the reasons being the fact that copper cables are stolen from the lights that we have here in the inner city.” By shifting to solar-powered systems, organisers aimed to bypass the challenges linked to traditional electricity grids, which are often disrupted by theft and outages. “We’ve seen a marked improvement… we don’t have reports of incidents happening in this area,” the manager added, pointing to the combined impact of lighting, surveillance and security patrols. Footage captured on Friday shows people walking through illuminated streets, with solar panels installed above public walkways and CCTV cameras monitoring previously unsafe areas. Residents say the changes have been immediate and noticeable. “I feel very safe walking down this stretch of town… I never feel threatened at all,” one local said, citing the presence of lighting and cameras. Students, many of whom travel during early morning or late evening hours, also highlighted the difference. “I come out around 8:00… it’s very beneficial to have some lights on because I don’t get to worry about getting mugged,” one student said. Another student noted that improved visibility has reduced fear, particularly among women. “As a girl… I was kind of scared. So now that there’s no dark… I feel safer,” she said. The initiative has also involved university students in implementing solutions, linking community safety with education and innovation. For many residents, the project is reshaping how they experience the city. “Jozi is known for being dangerous… but this project has really changed how we view it,” one local said. Johannesburg is frequently ranked among cities with the highest crime rates globally, with elevated levels of robbery, assault and property-related offences, particularly in urban and inner-city areas."

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