Residents of Homa Bay County have been urged to embrace peaceful mechanisms for resolving land disputes as the government intensifies efforts to bring land and security services closer to the people through community land clinics.
Speaking during a public land clinic forum held at Kanjira area in Rachuonyo West Sub-county, Homa Bay County Commissioner, Ronald Mwiwawi said land-related conflicts remain one of the county’s biggest challenges and have, in some cases, resulted in loss of lives.
Mwiwawi said the initiative was launched after he encountered numerous land-related complaints upon assuming office eight months ago. According to the Administrator, disputes over land ownership, succession and boundaries had become increasingly common, with some escalating into violent confrontations.
“Very senior people have been killed over matters related to land. That is why I made it a personal initiative to mobilize officers from both the lands and security departments to address these issues directly,” said Mwiwawi.
He noted that land disputes have evolved beyond civil disagreements and now pose a security concern, necessitating collaboration between government agencies.
The Kanjira forum was the second land clinic organized by the county security committee as part of a broader campaign to visit all sub-counties and educate residents on land management processes, forming part of the government’s broader efforts to improve service delivery, strengthen security and promote peaceful resolution of disputes across the county.
According to the County Commissioner, the outreach forums have revealed recurring challenges, including succession disputes, unclear boundaries and complaints from residents who view the process of acquiring title deeds as lengthy and complicated.
“We want to demystify government offices and make them more accessible. Many people fear approaching government institutions, yet the services they need are available. By bringing officers to the field, we are making these services easier to access,” he said.
Mwiwawi also warned residents against using brokers and cartels that often operate around government offices, particularly in land transactions.
“We are not entertaining brokers. Residents should deal directly with government officers to obtain accurate information and services without prejudice or exploitation,” he said.
The County Commissioner expressed optimism that the initiative would ultimately help residents acquire title deeds, secure public utilities on legally recognized land and reduce tensions arising from ownership disputes.
He further reported a decline in land-related incidents since the awareness campaign began. According to Mwiwawi, the county experienced several serious incidents between November and February, but increased public education and dialogue have helped reduce cases significantly.
“There are now months that pass without a single land-related incident. That is a positive sign that people are beginning to understand the proper channels for resolving disputes,” he said.
During the forum, several widows raised concerns about relatives interfering with land they inherited from deceased spouses.
Responding to the concerns, Mwiwawi assured them that the government would ensure justice is served.
“I want all widows in Homa Bay to know that they should not suffer in silence. They should report their concerns to government offices. Matters of succession begin at the assistant chief’s office, where beneficiaries can be properly identified,” he said.
The administrator also highlighted concerns over illegal fishing practices in Lake Victoria and the growing use of marijuana among some fishermen.
He warned that drug abuse was affecting communities and called for collective efforts to protect future generations.
County Land Coordinator, George Bosire echoed the county commissioner’s remarks, saying the land clinics were helping citizens understand land registration procedures and access services without unnecessary difficulties.
Bosire encouraged residents to seek guidance from assistant chiefs before travelling to lands offices, noting that many issues could be addressed at the local level.
“The assistant chief is the first point of contact in succession matters because they know the families and beneficiaries involved. Before spending money travelling, residents should first seek advice from the assistant chief’s office,” he said.
He acknowledged the existence of brokers operating around land offices but maintained that the government was taking measures to eliminate them. He urged residents to interact only with properly identified officers when seeking services.
Beyond land matters, security concerns also featured prominently during the meeting.
County Police Commander, Laurence Koilem emphasized the importance of bringing government services closer to the people, saying there is a need for community cooperation in addressing crime.
Koilem noted that theft of school property remains a major challenge in parts of Rachuonyo East and West. He urged residents to protect educational facilities, reminding them that stolen resources ultimately affect local children.
The police boss expressed concern over rising insecurity in Rachuonyo West, citing incidents of theft and school break-ins. He referred to a recent case in which 30 computers were stolen from a local school.
“We want development to reach our people, and that can only happen in a secure environment. Residents must share information with security agencies so that action can be taken quickly,” he said.
The police commander also linked many assault and murder cases in the county to unresolved land disputes. He urged residents to seek mediation and legal solutions instead of resorting to violence.
Koilem raised concerns over widespread alcohol and drug abuse, warning that the problem was threatening the future of young people in the county.
He also condemned the rise of criminal gangs, saying gang-related activities had contributed to deaths, injuries, and destruction of property.
Daniel Juma, a local resident, expressed concern over bureaucracy in county land offices, noting that accessing land services is often frustrating due to lengthy waiting time, cumbersome procedures, and frequent delays.
He added that when land disputes are reported, officials sometimes take an extended period to respond and resolve the issues.
by Sitna Omar
