The issue of title deeds has troubled many in Kenya who since independence were never given the legal documents over the lands they rightfully own.
The Community Land Bill, signed into law by Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta on Aug. 31, lays out the steps for communities to acquire titles to their ancestral land.
Around two-thirds of Kenya’s land is customarily owned by communities without formal title deeds, making it easy for corrupt individuals to sell or lease the land without the communities’ knowledge.
Marsabit County Government on Saturday issued 150 title deeds to residents of Dub Goba in Saku constituency.
Governor Mohamud Ali told residents not to sell their land but rather to use it to develop themselves.
He promised to give more titles to other residents, adding that the land issue will no longer be politicised.
There were scenes of jubilation at the chief’s office when residents were handed the title deeds they had been waiting for since independence.
At the same time, the Governor asked the registrar of persons to ensure youths get national identity cards.
He said in the last one year, no registration has been done in the county.
Ali said the county government is committed to uniting communities and safeguarding peace.