Protest erupts in Magumu as locals oppose private cemetery

The residents said the proposed cemetery — planned on a 69-acre parcel — would present a poor image for the area, arguing it sits at the gateway to Nyandarua County along the busy highway.

They instead urged the investor to develop a project they say would benefit the community, such as a technical training institution or a market.

According to records cited by locals, the land was allocated to the public on January 1, 1960, on a 99-year leasehold, but was later acquired by investors who now want to convert it into a cemetery and also build a five-star hotel.

The protesters claimed the cemetery would operate on a lease model, with reports indicating a unit would cost Sh130,000, while a single grave would be leased for 50 years.

Nyandarua CECM for Lands Stephen Mburu Kinyanjui, alongside MCAs Hassan Ndungu (Magumu Ward) and Kiiru Gachomba (Njabini-Kiburu Ward), joined residents in opposing the project.

They said the move was illegal and accused the investor of pushing the plan without public participation, arguing the original intention for the land was tree planting.

Kinyanjui said discussions were ongoing to have the land returned to the county, adding that once repossessed, the county plans to put up an ultra-modern market and a potato processing plant.