Can Kenya's Land Reforms Protect Ordinary Citizens?

Kenya’s push to unlock the economic value of land is raising a critical question: can the country pursue redevelopment and economic growth without displacing communities that depend on the land for their homes and livelihoods?

The question took center stage at the 5th Regional Research Conference at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi, bringing together policymakers, researchers, development partners, civil society and land-sector experts to discuss how stronger land governance can support sustainable economic development.

While the government points to progress in land reforms, including increased issuance of title deeds and the digitization of land records, citizens say delayed titles, poor demarcation, fake documents, corruption and unresolved disputes continue to expose communities to insecurity and displacement.

The National Land Commission (NLC) says development must, however, be guided by proper planning, secure land rights and fairness to communities.

NLC Chairperson Abdillahi Saggaf Alawy said the Commission recognizes land as a critical foundation for infrastructure, housing, industrialization and urban development, adding that effective land governance is necessary to unlock investment while protecting land rights.

The Commission says it has also facilitated land acquisition for more than 100 public projects, including roads, water, energy and security projects, while working to strengthen land tenure security and address land-related conflicts and historical injustices.