Nakuru: The State is collaborating with the Nakuru County Government to tackle long-standing land ownership disputes and accelerate the issuance of title deeds. This initiative aims to address increased insecurity and community conflicts caused by perennial land disputes in the region. Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, emphasized the importance of resolving these conflicts to promote economic empowerment for residents.
According to Kenya News Agency, Murkomen stated that the government is using a multi-agency approach to manage land adjudication processes. This involves verifying land claims and ensuring accurate land records with a focus on transparency and fairness. He highlighted that Molo, Subukia, Naivasha, and Narok are among the sub-counties most affected by land ownership conflicts. The government is committed to addressing historical grievances, protecting land ownership rights, and ensuring a smooth and fair land titling process.
During his address at the Rift Valley Regional Headquarters, Murkomen outlined the process of resolving land disputes, which includes identifying and securing essential public amenities like schools and health centers within affected settlements. He noted that conflicts often arise from multiple survey maps, delayed title deeds, land grabbing, and double allocations. He urged community elders to play a role in resolving land issues, as they understand land dynamics better.
Murkomen also warned against networks of land fraud syndicates manipulating official titles and vowed that those involved would face the law. He emphasized that land disputes pose a security threat and that resolving them is urgent. The Jukwaa la Usalama platform provides government officers an opportunity to interact with grassroots communities, listen to their challenges, and offer solutions.
The initiative aims to assess security and engage leaders and peace committees to enhance peace and cohesion. Murkomen announced that enhanced registration of persons and the issuance of national IDs are ongoing, with the target of 100,000 new applications in Nakuru. He also mentioned plans to open new registration offices in Kuresoi North, Subukia, and Rongai Sub-Counties.
Furthermore, Murkomen highlighted efforts to restore education in the North Rift, affected by banditry. The 'Operation Maliza Uhalifu' North Rift, launched in February 2023, has effectively dealt with banditry, restoring security in several counties. He pledged to intensify the crackdown on illicit brew and counterfeit alcohol and warned those involved in drug and substance abuse of prosecution.
Murkomen expressed concern over the trade and consumption of cannabis sativa in the county and urged public cooperation with security officers. He dismissed claims of a rift between the National Police Service Commission and the National Police Service, affirming a collaborative relationship between the two.
The Cabinet Secretary also addressed illegal fishing at Lake Nakuru, highlighting that fish from the lake, deemed unfit for consumption, was being sold in various markets. He noted that illegal fishing increased human-wildlife conflicts and posed a threat to endangered species at Lake Nakuru National Park.