In a landmark event, the County Government of Trans Nzoia, in collaboration with the Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC), has officially handed over the mother title deed for Nabiswa Farm to its rightful beneficiaries. This significant move is set to ensure land tenure security and boost agricultural productivity for over 40 families residing on the farm.
The ceremony was presided over by County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, Janerose Mutama, and AFC Managing Director, George Mbui. The handover of the mother title deed marks the culmination of concerted efforts to resolve long-standing land ownership disputes in the county.
“This handover signifies our commitment to ensuring that land ownership issues are resolved and that our people can confidently invest in their land. It is a critical step towards realizing sustainable development and improving livelihoods,” stated CEC Janerose Mutama.
George Mbui, AFC Managing Director, emphasized the importance of the partnership between the county government and the AFC in addressing land-related challenges. “This partnership underscores our dedication to supporting farmers and landowners. With secure land tenure, beneficiaries can access financial services and invest in modern farming techniques, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity,” he remarked.
The beneficiaries of Nabiswa Farm expressed their gratitude for the county government’s efforts in resolving their land ownership issues. The issuance of the mother title deed is expected to pave the way for the distribution of individual title deeds, providing residents with the security needed to develop their land without fear of repossession.
Governor George Natembeya had previously highlighted the challenges faced by up to 80% of residents in Trans-Nzoia County who lack ownership documents for their land. Poverty and past loan agreements have been significant roadblocks, with many residents purchasing land from individuals who had used the titles as collateral for loans from the AFC. These loans, ballooning into millions of shillings, have become impossible to repay, leaving the land titles stuck with the AFC.
Governor Natembeya called for collaboration with the national government to expedite the issuance of land titles, particularly those held by the AFC. Janerose Mutama reported progress in specific cases, including Nabiswa Farm in Kiminini. Through their intervention, over 40 families who have resided on the farm for decades without proper documentation have reached an agreement. Four representatives from the farm committee are now entrusted with the collective title deed, previously held by the AFC, to facilitate the issuance of individual land ownership documents.
Mutama emphasized the importance of land titles in enabling residents to develop their farms. She encouraged residents to proactively approach the lands office to address outstanding land matters and obtain their rightful ownership documents.
George Mbui commended the efforts of the county government’s land department and expressed willingness to work towards solutions for outstanding debts from various farms across the county.
The event was attended by various county officials, community leaders, and residents, all of whom lauded the county government’s initiatives to streamline land administration and promote equitable land distribution. The successful handover of the Nabiswa Farm title deed marks a significant milestone in Trans Nzoia County’s journey towards securing land ownership for its residents and fostering sustainable development.
