Court stops Githunguri affordable housing project disputed by Kikuyu elders

In a ruling delivered by Justice Bahati Mwamunye, the court directed the contractor to cease all activities on the disputed 58-acre parcel of land. The judge further ordered the demolition of the perimeter wall and instructed the contractor to vacate the site pending the hearing and determination of a case filed before the court.

The land in question is at the center of a dispute between the government and elders from the Agikuyu community.

The ruling comes just days after the elders conducted a cultural ritual at the site. Following the ceremony, lawyer Njoroge Mwangi filed a petition challenging the continuation of the affordable housing project.

Reacting to the court’s decision, Gitau Boro welcomed the ruling, describing it as a significant step toward recognizing and respecting cultural heritage within the country.

He called on the government to comply with the court order and allow the fulfilment of the prophecies of Mugo wa Kibiru, particularly regarding the construction of a Thingira.

Kikuyu elders on Friday held a symbolic traditional ritual at the contested site, breaking a calabash as a sign of a curse against individuals and authorities they accuse of undermining Kikuyu heritage.

The elders insist the land holds deep cultural and historical significance and should be preserved as a heritage site.