Governor Achani blocks illegal sale of historic Kongo Mosque land

The land has been at the center of controversy after two individuals fraudulently obtained title deeds and attempted to sell it. In response, the Kwale County Government swiftly placed restrictions (caveats) to prevent any unlawful transactions.

Kongo Mosque, the oldest mosque in East Africa, is believed to have been built by early Arab settlers in the 14th century. The attempted sale of its land has sparked concerns among locals about the potential loss of their cultural heritage.

Speaking during the launch of a street lighting project at Kongo Mosque, Governor Achani affirmed that her administration had taken decisive steps to safeguard the land from 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 formally written to the National Land Commission (NLC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), urging them to revoke the fraudulent title deeds created by powerful individuals attempting to sell the mosque’s land.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has also stepped in to assist in halting the illegal transactions.

Governor Achani expressed gratitude for the support received from these agencies and reiterated her administration’s commitment to combating land grabbing in the county.

"I appreciate the backing from the EACC and other agencies that have shown a keen interest in the fight against land grabbing in Kwale County," she added.

She further highlighted that, in collaboration with the EACC, the county government has successfully reclaimed several pieces of land, including Kisite Mpunguti, Chale Island, two parcels in Diani, and additional land in Lungalunga Sub-County.

Achani urged residents to work together with the county government in the ongoing fight against illegal land acquisitions, a sentiment echoed by Kwale County Attorney Salim Gombeni.

"Land matters are taken very seriously in this county, and our priority remains the recovery of all illegally acquired lands," Gombeni emphasized.

As efforts to protect Kongo Mosque’s land continue, Governor Achani reaffirmed her commitment to reclaiming all grabbed land across the county.