Uasin Gishu County is holding more sensitisation forums on land matters to help residents understand existing legal frameworks and the resolution of conflicts.
Governor Jonathan Bii has directed his executives to ensure the land sensitisation initiative reaches all parts of the county.
Bii has also been at the forefront championing for the use of Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) to resolve long-standing land conflicts in the region.
“We have so many land matters pending in our courts for many years yet they can be resolved through AJS,” Bii said.
He said the county was teaming up with the Judiciary to sensitise residents on the use of AJS to resolve conflicts. Through the Department of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development, the county has extended the ongoing Land Clinics Programme to all parts of the county, with the latest one being held in Burnt Forest and Kimumu areas.
The initiative is jointly facilitated by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) under the European Union-funded project and the county.
It aims to enhance land governance, promote public awareness and encourage environmental sustainability.
Team leaders and assistant directors Cyprian Chesire and Charles Kimani who attended the clinics, explained the role of the planning department in the success of the programme.
Other officials, including Ian Maiyo and Eve Muriithi, led discussions on forward planning and development control, emphasising the importance of orderly development and adherence to planning regulations.
They also addressed issues on land administration, explaining various processes and reforms aimed at improving service delivery.
Residents who attended the clinics expressed appreciation for the sensitisation programme, noting that it had helped demystify land matters and improved their understanding of county land procedures.
They further requested that the department hold such forums quarterly to ensure continuous engagement and information sharing.
Bii said the land clinics are important in helping residents understand issues around land which is a key resource for development.
“As a county, we want our people to understand all matters ,including how it can be used as a resource for development,” Bii said.
He said proper planning is required for good use of land in both urban and rural areas. The county chief said use of AJS would help to resolve land conflicts in a faster and cheaper way than the use of heavy costs and lengthy periods in formal courts
BY MATHEWS NDANYI
