Residents of Sosoni village in Jilore Ward, Kilifi County, have issued a stern ultimatum to the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO), demanding immediate payment of compensation for their land and properties along the Kakuyuni-Weru section of the Malindi-Kilifi 82.5-kilovolt transmission line. The group, frustrated by years of waiting, has threatened legal action if the company does not settle their dues within 14 days.
Long-Standing Dispute
The residents claim that KETRACO has failed to honor compensation promises made over five years ago. According to Mumba Mwagandi Ngala, a local resident, the community has grown weary of what they perceive as deliberate delays and false assurances from the company. In protest, some residents have started reconstructing their houses on the project’s proposed land, while others have begun new developments despite warnings from KETRACO and local administrators to halt construction.
Ngala expressed the residents’ frustration, saying, “We cannot wait forever. Either KETRACO compensates us as agreed, or we will take them to court to seek justice. Our livelihoods are being disrupted unnecessarily.”
Community Leaders Speak Out
Elias Katana Kadzeha, another local leader, emphasized the urgency of the matter, warning that continued delays will only complicate the situation further. “If KETRACO does not act quickly, new valuations will be necessary, which will increase the compensation amounts significantly. The delays are only making things worse,” Kadzeha explained.
Edward Kingi, a vocal advocate for the affected community, has been instrumental in gathering evidence to support the residents’ claims. Armed with an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report and an Evaluation Report, Kingi stated that the community is prepared to take the matter to court if KETRACO fails to meet the deadline.
“We have all the necessary documents to back our case. If KETRACO does not act within 14 days, we will let the courts decide,” Kingi affirmed.
Financial Implications for KETRACO
A valuation report seen by the Kenya News Agency estimates that compensating all property owners along the proposed transmission line will cost KETRACO more than Ksh.697.14 million. Of this, residents of Jilore Ward are set to receive over Ksh.142.3 million. These figures underscore the significant financial burden the company faces in resolving the dispute.
However, the delay in payments could lead to even higher costs. With some residents constructing new buildings on the disputed land, a new valuation may require KETRACO to compensate for additional structures and developments.
Calls for Swift Resolution
The residents’ ultimatum has highlighted the need for KETRACO to expedite the compensation process and avoid further escalation of the conflict. Local leaders have urged the company to prioritize transparency and efficiency in resolving the dispute.
“This is not just about money; it is about fairness and respect for people’s rights. KETRACO must demonstrate that it values the community and is committed to resolving this matter amicably,” said Kadzeha.
Legal Action Looms
With the 14-day deadline ticking, KETRACO faces mounting pressure to act. If the company fails to meet the residents’ demands, a legal battle could ensue, potentially delaying the Malindi-Kilifi transmission project and increasing overall costs.
The residents’ plight serves as a reminder of the importance of timely and fair compensation in infrastructure projects. As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on KETRACO to see whether it can resolve the matter and move forward with the critical energy project.
