The government has sounded a strong warning to land grabbers following the illegal occupation of over 200 acres of land belonging to the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) in Trans Nzoia County. Authorities have promised swift action to reclaim the public land and hold those responsible accountable.
Highlights:
- KEPHIS loses over 200 acres of land to illegal occupation in Trans Nzoia.
- Government warns land grabbers and promises tough consequences.
- The grabbed land was part of public agricultural research holdings.
- Investigations launched to unmask the individuals behind the grab.
- Ministry says recovery process is already underway.
Main Story:
A land grabbing scandal has rocked Trans Nzoia County, where over 200 acres of land owned by KEPHIS have reportedly been taken over by private individuals. The land, designated for agricultural research and seed certification programs, is now under dispute, sparking national concern.
According to government officials, the grabbers moved in quietly and began fencing off portions of the land some even erecting permanent structures without proper documentation or approvals.
In response, the government has issued a stern warning to those involved, declaring zero tolerance for land theft. Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome emphasized that the state will not sit back as public land is converted into private property through illegal means.
“This land is a public asset meant to serve national interests,” she said. “We are coming for everyone involved regardless of their status or influence.”
Authorities have already launched investigations and initiated a land recovery process to restore KEPHIS’s full ownership of the property.
The case has reignited debate over land governance in Kenya, particularly the vulnerability of state institutions to encroachment. Experts warn that unless land records are secured and enforcement improved, vital public assets will continue to fall into the hands of opportunistic individuals.
The Ministry of Lands is now calling on counties to collaborate in identifying and protecting public land, especially parcels associated with research, health, education, and environmental conservation.
As the government moves to reclaim grabbed land, one thing is clear the era of quietly fencing off public property may be coming to an end
