Governor Achani resumes Mwereni Ranch subdivision, vows to end land injustices

Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani has issued an order to resume demarcation and subdivision of the 43,466-hectare Mwereni Group Ranch, clearing the way for the issuance of over 10,000 title deeds to Mwereni residents in Lunga Lunga Subcounty.

This decision comes after the process was halted several months ago due to disagreements over improperly obtained title deeds and the formation of an unauthorized parallel committee.

Governor Achani, speaking at a public event in Mwereni, emphasized the importance of transparency in the subdivision process and warned against interference.

She urged security agencies to take action against anyone attempting to disrupt the process or engage in land grabbing.

Since taking office in 2022, the governor's administration has actively addressed land injustices in Kwale County.

Notable accomplishments include the reclamation of public lands on Chale Island, Kisite Mpunguti Island, and the Diani Beach plots in collaboration with the National Land Commission (NLC) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde echoed the governor's sentiments, urging residents to remain calm and cooperative during the ongoing process.

Local leaders, including Lunga Lunga Member of Parliament Mangela Chiphoromodo, have pledged to collaborate with both national and county governments to address the region's long-standing land injustices.

Residents, represented by area MCA Manza Beja and community leader Joseph Ruwa Mwero, have proposed using the "Jembe Kwa Jembe" system for demarcation purposes.

They argue that this method ensures inclusivity and fairness by accommodating all landowners, including non-indigenous communities like the Kambas, Masais, and Kikuyus who legally own parcels in the area.

The NLC is currently working with Kwale residents to resolve long-standing land disputes, indicating a renewed effort to put an end to historical grievances.

As the subdivision process continues, the county government remains committed to equitable land distribution and the abolition of land-related injustices.