NLC steps up Kajiado land dispute drive amid public land grabbing criticism
The National Land Commission (NLC) has intensified data collection and community engagement efforts in Kajiado County as part of a nationwide push to address historical land injustices and long-standing disputes.
The renewed drive comes amid mounting criticism over the Commission’s perceived failure to curb rampant grabbing of public land across the country.
According to the NLC, 1,864 historical land injustice claims have been reported by communities nationwide.
Of these, 1,066 cases have been resolved, reflecting progress in clearing a significant backlog. However, hundreds of disputes remain pending, underscoring the magnitude of land-related grievances that have persisted for decades.
In Kajiado County, the commission is conducting field visits to engage residents, local leaders and administrators to better understand land conflicts at the grassroots level.
The NLC says the consultations are aimed at accelerating dispute resolution while promoting equitable access to land.
Central to its approach is the Alternative Justice System (AJS), a community-based dispute resolution mechanism that encourages mediation and dialogue outside the formal court process.
Commissioner Tiyah Galgalo said AJS has proven effective in resolving conflicts amicably, particularly in areas where court backlogs have delayed justice. She urged residents to embrace alternative dispute resolution systems, describing them as faster, affordable and more accessible.
Galgalo also called on public institutions, including schools and government offices, to formalize land ownership by registering and securing proper documentation for the land they occupy.
She warned that failure to regularize documentation exposes public property to encroachment and ownership disputes a concern that has fueled criticism over continued public land grabbing in parts of the country.
Kajiado County Commissioner Michael Yator noted that National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and the Nyumba Kumi Initiative are working closely with the NLC to identify disputes early and support mediation efforts.
He said the collaboration has strengthened coordination between government agencies and communities in managing land matters.
