Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani has taken swift action to stop the illegal sale of 18 acres of historic Kongo Mosque land, following fraudulent claims of ownership by two individuals who obtained fake title deeds. The land, deeply significant to the local Muslim community, had been advertised for sale in newspapers and on social media, sparking public outrage and concern over the potential loss of cultural heritage.
Kongo Mosque, believed to be the oldest mosque in East Africa and dating back to the 14th century, is a historical landmark that has long been a symbol of the region’s rich Islamic heritage. The attempted sale of its surrounding land prompted immediate intervention from the Kwale County Government, which placed caveats to prevent any unlawful transactions.
Speaking at the launch of a street lighting project at Kongo Mosque, Governor Achani reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to protecting the mosque’s land and preventing fraudulent ownership claims.
“We have put measures in place to stop these individuals from taking over this land, and with the support of various government agencies, we are confident in reclaiming it,” Achani stated.
The county government has officially written to the National Land Commission (NLC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), urging them to revoke the fraudulent title deeds. Additionally, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has joined the efforts to halt the illegal transactions.
Governor Achani acknowledged the critical role these agencies have played in the fight against land grabbing and expressed gratitude for their support. She also highlighted past successes in reclaiming illegally acquired land, including Kisite Mpunguti, Chale Island, two parcels in Diani, and land in Lungalunga Sub-County.
Kwale County Attorney Salim Gombeni echoed Achani’s stance, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to reclaiming all unlawfully acquired lands.
“Land matters are taken very seriously in this county, and our priority remains the recovery of all illegally acquired lands,” Gombeni stated.
As efforts to protect Kongo Mosque’s land continue, Governor Achani urged residents to collaborate with the county government in the fight against land grabbing, reinforcing her administration’s determination to uphold justice and preserve Kwale’s cultural and historical heritage.
