Nairobi: 19th September, 2024
Residents of Nairobi City County’s Site and Service schemes and Allotted Schemes have every reason to smile, after receiving title deeds in an event which was presided over by H.E Governor Sakaja A. Johnson at Charter Hall Nairobi.
The beneficiaries were drawn from 14 Nairobi County Schemes namely;
Kayole Soweto, Dandora, Matopeni Spring valley, Patanisho, Lower Savannah, KCC, Dandora ,Pumwani, Kayole site and service Scheme, Mathare North, Komarock, Kariobangi South, Umoja 1 and Umoja Innercore.
This is the 2nd round of title deeds issuance in Nairobi in the last two years and so far a total number of 7000 title deeds have been unlocked and issued.
The first round where a total number of 2000 title deeds were issued to individuals and 100 to public facilities was held in June 2023.
In his manifesto Governor Sakaja committed to unlock the stalemate surrounding land issues in Nairobi particularly on security of tenure.
In his remarks, the Governor observed that most of the title deeds were issued to elderly Citizens acknowledging that the process had stalled for over fifty years.
Said Governor Sakaja “It is unfortunate that the past administrations did little to address the issue, and I am happy to report that ,my Administration will continue to do everything possible to make a difference in the lives of our people. are committed to ensuring security of tenure to Nairobians and securing their land interest”.
The County boss further acknowledged the support of the National Government stating that the process of issuance of title deeds was a collaborative effort between the National and the County Government.
The exercise comes against the backdrop of serious illegalities on land matters including multiple allocations and land grabbing an issue that has become a thorn in the flesh across the Nation.
The Governor issued a stern warning to anyone sitting on land meant for public use, stating that the County Government of Nairobi had initiated legal processes to revoke and revert grabbed public installations back to the people.
One of Nairobi County’s biggest source of revenue is land rates. In the financial year 2023/24 Nairobi City County Government collected revenue amounting to KShs 12.8 billion, the highest figure since the advent of devolution.
Addressing the gathering, the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Built Environment and Urban Planning – Mr. Patrick Mbogo, underscored that acquiring the very coveted document was a gateway to a myriad of opportunities to the holders. The CEC Member cited that among the many benefits, the document would help holders to unlock their full economic potential. Mr. Mbogo acknowledged the efforts by the team tasked with the responsibility of unlocking the title deeds, led by the County Chief officer for lands Ms. Cecilia Koigu.
A title deed not only serves as proof of ownership but also facilitates legal and secure transactions. Every property owner has a right to possess a degree of security of tenure that guarantees legal protection against forced eviction, harassment and other threats, it also acts as a safeguard in facilitating smooth transfer of property.
The event was graced by Nairobi County Executive Committee members, the County Secretary, County Attorney, County Chief Officers, Members of the Nairobi County Assembly and property owners drawn from the 14 schemes.
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