The Kenyan government has revealed intentions to invalidate title deeds associated with unlawfully obtained land in targeted regions, including Nairobi, the Coast, and Ngong, where numerous instances of questionable land transactions have been identified.
Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome acknowledged the presence of hundreds of counterfeit title deeds, attributing the crisis to powerful cartels that have infiltrated the Lands Department.
During a press conference at Lake Naivasha Resort held during a two-day workshop for senior ministry officers, Wahome conveyed the government’s resolute commitment to addressing the issue decisively.
She highlighted the influence of influential cartels within the Lands Department, pledging not to recognize certificates linked to fraudulent land acquisitions.
“The ministry has faced criticism from all quarters, and we will not validate these certificates and will take action against all those responsible,” Wahome declared, underscoring the imperative to dismantle the powerful cartels involved in the illegitimate acquisition of land.
This revelation coincided with the disclosure that the Ministry of Lands is contending with a debt exceeding KES 8.0 billion in litigation fees due to various prolonged court cases.
Wahome issued a warning to land officers and fraudsters, identifying allotment letters as a significant contributor to widespread cases of land fraud and disputes.
To address these challenges, the Cabinet Secretary outlined the government’s decision not to recognize expired allotment letters in the future.
Despite acknowledging impediments such as understaffing and insufficient resources in many land registries, Wahome highlighted ongoing efforts in digitizing land services to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. The digitization initiative has already contributed to a notable revenue collection of Sh14 billion.
In defense of the affordable housing program, Wahome underscored its role in creating job opportunities for thousands of youths and generating revenue for manufacturers. She asserted that the Ministry of Lands would assume the role of guardian for title deeds under the affordable housing program.
Lands Principal Secretary Nixon Korir attributed the increase in revenue collection to the adoption of a cashless system, acknowledging that, despite progress, some individuals were evading stamp duty.
The government’s crackdown on illegal land acquisitions and its commitment to fortify land administration processes represent significant strides in addressing longstanding issues related to land fraud and disputes in Kenya.
