The County Government of Trans Nzoia is in the final stages of the land tenure regularization process for the informal settlements of Maridadi in Kwanza Ward and Khalabana in Matumbei Ward. This initiative, supported by the Kenya Informal Settlement Improvement Project Phase 2 (KISIP2), aims to provide title deeds to 129 residents, marking a significant step toward land security and economic empowerment in these areas, which have long been affected by land disputes and poverty.
Progress of the Land Tenure Regularization
Speaking during a presentation of local physical and development plans to the County Assembly, Chief Officer for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, Dr. Roselyne Nasiebanda, outlined the progress of the regularization process. She stated that the initiative would result in the issuance of 64 certificates of lease in Maridadi and 65 in Khalabana.
“This process will see 64 certificates of lease issued in Maridadi and 65 in Khalabana. It has been a collaborative effort involving the National Government, County Government, and international partners like the World Bank and Agence Française de Développement,” she remarked.
Dr. Nasiebanda highlighted that since its launch in January 2024, the program has developed comprehensive land use plans for residential, commercial, industrial, and public utility purposes, aimed at transforming the settlements. She also acknowledged the role of local committees, including the Settlement Executive Committees and Grievance Redress Committees, in mobilizing communities and resolving disputes.
Significance of Land Ownership
County Director of Physical Planning, Beatrice Wangila, emphasized the crucial role of formal land ownership in driving development in informal settlements. “Title deeds and lease certificates are not just documents; they unlock access to financial institutions and enable permanent development. Maridadi and Khalabana will serve as model centers for future planning efforts,” Wangila stated.
Urgency of Approval
Alfred Weswa, Chair of the County Assembly Committee on Lands and Town Planning, commended the efforts of the Lands Department in advancing the land tenure regularization process. He stressed the importance of expediting the approval of the plans to ensure further support from KISIP2.
“The presentation of these plans gives us an opportunity to understand and approve them promptly. Approval is critical for unlocking further support from KISIP2 and ensuring infrastructure upgrades such as tarmacking, street lighting, and water projects,” Weswa noted. He urged the County Assembly members to prioritize the approval process to prevent delays that could jeopardize funding.
“The plans have strict timelines and must be approved by next Tuesday to progress. This will ensure that the people of Maridadi and Khalabana secure land ownership documents and reap the benefits of development,” he added.
Support from Assembly Leaders
Deputy Speaker Obed Mahanga and Majority Leader Edwin Kosgei, who attended the meeting, pledged their support for the approval process. They emphasized the long-term economic and social benefits of formalizing land ownership in informal settlements.
“By formalizing land ownership, we empower our communities and unlock opportunities for growth and development,” Mahanga stated.
Looking Ahead
Once approved, the plans will pave the way for other settlements in Trans Nzoia to benefit from KISIP2, bringing much-needed infrastructure upgrades and improving livelihoods across the county.
