Four advocacy groups have moved to court in Mombasa to challenge the allocation of 90 acres of protected mangrove forest land to an individual.
The petition filled at the environment and land court in Mombasa by Commission for Human Rights and Justice, Active Environment Team, Sheria na Haki, Human Rights Institute and Port Reitz Beach Management Unit Networks, highlights the significance as a crucial site for local fishermen.
Mr. Julius Ogogoh, representative of the four groups, emphasized that the strip of land, gazetted as a Mangrove forest in 1964, has remained a communal asset for villager and fishermen. “Concerns were raised regarding the land’s alienation, acquisition, sale, and transfer without due consideration for the National Land Commission, responsible for safeguarding public land interests,” he said.
He went to say that despite numerous attempts to seek clarification and resolution from both the County and national government land’s executives, the issue remained unresolved, prompting legal recourse.
Justice Kibunja’s certification of the case as urgent reflects the gravity of the matter, with a slated hearing for December 14, 2023, signifying the pressing need for swift resolution.
This legal move underscores the community’s determination to protect vital communal spaces and serves as a crucial step towards ensuring accountability in land allocation processes. It highlights the need for transparency and adherence to established protocols in managing public resources.
