The World Bank will launch a program that aims to provide better lighting conditions to the 250 million residents of Sub-Saharan Africa. Along with its private sector arm, the International Finance Corporation, the bank will improve market conditions for the supply and dissemination of non-fossil fuel lighting products. “Modern lighting will mean improved air quality and safety for millions of people in Africa,” said World Bank energy sector manager S. Vijay Ayer. “It will mean longer reading hours for students and longer business hours for small shops.” To date, 350 companies have already shown their interest in the Lighting Africa initiative. (Source: World Bank launches program to improve lighting for sub-Saharan Africa/Associated Press)