The 4th Regional Research Conference on Land Reform in Kenya opened on Tuesday at the Kenya School of Government, Nairobi, with key stakeholders assessing progress and challenges in land governance under the theme: “Taking Stock of the Land Reform Progress in Kenya.”
Convened by the National Land Commission (NLC), the three-day forum has brought together government officials, members of the judiciary, civil society organizations, researchers, and development partners. It aims to reflect on Kenya’s land reform journey since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.
Despite notable reforms, participants raised concern over persistent challenges such as historical land injustices, fraudulent land transactions, weak enforcement of land laws, and delayed compensation during compulsory acquisition processes.
Allegations of fraud in title deed issuance and lack of tenure security continue to undermine equity in land access.
In her opening remarks, NLC CEO Kabale Tache Arero acknowledged support from partners including FAO, the Ministry of Lands, and the National Bank of Kenya. She emphasized the need for inclusive reforms guided by evidence and collaborative efforts between researchers, civil society, and state institutions.
Principal Judge of the Environment and Land Court (ELC), Hon. Justice Oscar Angote, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the judiciary’s critical role in transforming Kenya’s land jurisprudence. “Land is the soul of our heritage and must be governed justly,” he stated, citing court rulings that have invalidated fraudulently acquired titles and promoted personal accountability among land officials.
Justice Angote also addressed disputes in leasehold renewals and compulsory acquisitions, noting the courts’ insistence on transparency and timely compensation. He called for enhanced coordination between the NLC and Ministry of Lands, and a re-evaluation of statutory limits placed on addressing historical land injustices.
Commissioner Easther Murugi Mathenge reaffirmed NLC’s constitutional mandate to conduct research and promote policy dialogue. She called for the national adoption of land information systems and greater grassroots participation in governance.
Supported by institutions such as the EU, FAO, UON, and NRF, the conference continues to focus on four thematic areas: legal frameworks, dispute resolution, governance, and natural resource management, with a commitment to promoting just and sustainable land reforms.