President William Ruto has announced that the government will purchase land from absentee landlords to resettle squatters in the coastal region. This initiative aims to provide residents with legal land ownership and socio-economic stability by issuing title deeds to those who have lacked ownership documents for years.
Speaking in Mombasa County, President Ruto emphasized the importance of resolving the coastal region’s longstanding land issues. He highlighted the need for land ownership as a catalyst for economic empowerment and social development.
“We are issuing title deeds in the coastal region to address the longstanding land problem that has made many residents squatters, denying them the socio-economic benefits of land ownership,” said the President.
Beyond the issuance of title deeds, the government is also reclaiming public land that has been illegally acquired. President Ruto directed the Coast regional security team to oversee the repossession of a 12-acre parcel of land meant for the Likoni Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College. He confirmed that fencing of the reclaimed land would commence immediately to safeguard it for educational purposes.
The President’s commitment to accelerating the issuance of title deeds across the country is part of a broader effort to curb land grabbing and provide rightful ownership to Kenyan citizens. During his visit to Mombasa, he handed out 450 title deeds to residents of Changamwe, marking a significant step in addressing the region’s land disputes.
Additionally, President Ruto inspected the progress of a 2,100-unit affordable housing project in Changamwe Constituency. He assured residents that once the project is completed, it will significantly improve their living conditions and eliminate slum settlements in the area.
“This transformative initiative is also expanding our manufacturing industry in the housing value chain and empowering low-income Kenyans to become homeowners,” he stated.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed the President’s call for cooperation among leaders to address the country’s pressing challenges. Meanwhile, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir defended former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s supporters, arguing that they deserve representation in government despite Odinga’s unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship.
The President’s visit to the Coast underscores the government’s commitment to addressing land issues, improving housing conditions, and fostering national unity. With ongoing efforts to issue title deeds, reclaim grabbed land, and invest in affordable housing, residents of the region can anticipate a future of greater economic security and dignity.
