Taveta: The national government has announced plans to gazette two new land registries in Taveta and Voi subcounties, aiming to bring essential services closer to the local population. Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki unveiled this plan during a ceremony in Taveta, Taita Taveta County, where over 3,500 title deeds were distributed to residents of Njukini, Eldoro, and the surrounding areas.
According to Kenya News Agency, land ownership has been a contentious issue in the region, often resulting in disputes and stalled development projects. The planned gazettement is set to address long-standing challenges, especially delays in accessing land records, title deeds, and other critical land services. Once operational, the registries will expedite the resolution of land disputes, enhance land ownership documentation, and boost economic activities dependent on land.
During the event, the Deputy President oversaw the issuance of 1,301 title deeds to residents of Njukini and another 2,200 titles to Mata, Darajani, and Eldoro B residents in Taveta Sub County. Prof. Kindiki assured those who could not attend the event and whose titles were unavailable that their documents would be delivered directly to their doorsteps.
Prof. Kindiki emphasized the importance of the new registries, stating, "To make work easier in all the remaining areas, all deserving residents must get a title deed. Taita Taveta is a bit big, and currently, all the residents of this county go to Wundanyi for land-related issues. Traveling from Taveta or Voi to Wundanyi for land services is challenging due to the distance. Therefore, the government has directed that we start a new registry office in Taveta and another one in Voi to make it easier for the residents to process their land documents, hence saving time and resources."
He credited President William Ruto for the timely directive on the issuance of title deeds, stating that this would facilitate land ownership and catalyze regional development. "This initiative is not just about handing out papers; it is about empowering people to take charge of their land and future," he added.
Lands and Physical Planning Principal Secretary Nixon Korir reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring all Kenyans secure title deeds. According to Korir, over 60% of Kenyans lack these crucial documents, which are vital for developing and securing ownership rights. He mentioned that the government has already issued over one million title deeds in different parts of the country, including Narok, Meru, and Kilifi counties, with a similar program set to roll out in other regions next month.
Korir further stated that over 200,000 title deeds are ready for issuance within the next two months nationwide. "In Taita Taveta County, some residents have waited over 20 years to get their title deeds. This government is determined to resolve this backlog and ensure every Kenyan has a title deed," he said.
The issuance of title deeds is expected to unlock the region's economic potential by enabling residents to use their land for development, farming, and business ventures. Beyond land reforms, the government is also investing in infrastructure to stimulate regional trade.
Prof. Kindiki highlighted the government's plan to begin constructing the Njukini-Ilacit road next month, which is expected to improve connectivity between Taita Taveta and Kajiado counties and stimulate trade within the region. He also mentioned the ongoing renovation of the Njukini market, promising to return next month to assess progress on the works. The modern market is expected to boost local trade and provide better opportunities for small-scale traders.
He concluded by urging Kenyans to express their views with decorum and respect, highlighting the government's commitment to delivering on its promises despite limited resources.