Nairobi City County government has directed hundreds of residents residing on the disputed Kirima land in Njiru to suspend any ongoing construction activities pending the resolution of the protracted land dispute, in adherence to resolutions arising from a meeting held on January 10.
The meeting, attended by representatives of the land occupants and the Nairobi City County government, sought to reconcile differences between the local government and the Kirima family, asserting ownership of the contested land.
Acting County Secretary Patrick Analo, in an official statement, delineated key directives recommended by the county government following engagements with the Kirima family and the land occupants. These directives encompass evaluating the occupancy status of each specific land parcel, executing a geographical survey to document existing settlements, conducting valuations for rating purposes, and undertaking surveys in alignment with an approved scheme, among other specified actions. Analo underscored that these measures are aimed at preserving the integrity of property titles and protecting property rights.
Analo emphasized the significance of these measures, stating, “The importance of undertaking this exercise is to protect sanctity and title and safeguard property rights.” He further asserted that areas earmarked for public amenities would be duly identified and vested with relevant public institutions. Additionally, the meeting mandated a temporary cessation of further development on the disputed land until further notice, prohibiting any construction or advancements on the specified parcel.
In a notable legal development in December 2023, the Environment and Lands Court adjudicated that the contested property rightfully belongs to the Kirima family. This ruling affects individuals who had claimed allocations from the Commissioner of Lands, the Nairobi County government, and others asserting ownership through adverse possession.
