Over 2,000 squatters in Kiambu County’s Kamiti area have urged the government to expedite their settlement on 400 acres of land they claim was allocated to them over 30 years ago.
Representing the Kamiti Forest Squatters Association, residents assert that the late President Daniel Moi allocated the land in 1994, yet prolonged court battles and interference from officials and affluent individuals have prevented their possession.
Chairman Philip Makau called on President William Ruto to intervene and ensure the squatters receive their rightful share of the 419-acre parcel situated between Kiambu Town, Githunguri, and Ruiru sub-counties.
The group made their appeal outside the Thika Environment and Land Court, where a hearing on land ownership was scheduled. Makau emphasized the urgency of their case, highlighting that several beneficiaries have died without receiving the land.
The association has requested that the court visit the area to hear residents’ grievances, stressing that many lack alternative housing. “We appeal to the court to visit and listen directly to residents seeking justice for over 30 years,” Makau stated.
Additionally, the squatters accused local administrators of colluding with individuals to seize a public cemetery. “We urge the Kiambu County Commissioner to take action against chiefs involved in the cemetery’s sale,” Makau added, emphasizing their need for a burial place for their loved ones.
Resident Fatuma Boru, who has lived in the area since 1996, recounted a recent encounter with a local administrator who suggested she should “go back to Moyale.” “I have lived and worked here with my family for decades. I appeal to the President to hear our cry and settle us, as we have no other home,” Boru expressed.
Another resident, Francis Maina, echoed the call for government action to address the squatters’ plight and expedite their settlement. In 2022, a Parliamentary Committee on Lands and the National Land Commission visited the area and recommended maintaining the status quo, indicating that current occupants should be settled there.
