West Pokot County has launched a spatial physical and land use development plan in a move to attract investments and help address complex challenges that lead to a myriad of conflicts from land use.
Governor Simon Kachapin underscored the value of having the document which he noted would improve road infrastructure, reduce human-wildlife conflict, and encroachment on fragile ecosystems among other challenges.
Governor Kachapin made the remarks in a speech read on his behalf by Deputy Governor Robert Komolle during the launch of the plan and issuance of community land title deeds.
Kachapin said the County will now get a clear development roadmap with strict reference to the long-awaited document.
“This plan comes at a defining moment when our county continues to face complex and interrelated challenges including unplanned and informal settlements, land use conflicts and the depletion of natural resources,” noted the Governor.
He added that climate variability and population growth have intensified pressure on rangelands, forests, and water catchment areas. “The plan seeks to resolve persistent land use conflicts, reduce environmental degradation, enhance resilience to climate risks and ensure equitable distribution of public facilities and services,” explained Kachapin.
He said that residents stand to benefit from the appreciation of land value owing to conversion of areas near the town into urban zones.
According to the plan, the county now will now have two municipalities with the conversion of Chepareria into a municipality status.
Kachapin called for collective ownership and sustained commitment from government institutions, community leaders, development partners, the private sector, and the entire citizenry for a successful implementation of the spatial plan that runs for the next 10 years.
Meanwhile Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Representative to Kenya Ms. Farayi Zimudzi lauded the county for coming up with the plan saying it will go a long way in enhancing sustainable development in the region.
She said communities now have an opportunity to plan their activities and add value to their lives especially with the issuance of community title deeds.
Ms. Zimudzi reiterated that most communities have lost opportunities due to lack of land use plans urging all counties to develop their documents to enable them maximise the land resources.
West Pokot County Commissioner (CC) David Saruni on his part congratulated the county government for launching such a critical document saying it will act as a guidebook to those willing to invest in the county.
He urged residents to fully engage especially on matters of community land to avoid being exploited by unscrupulous investors and conmen.
“People have realised that West Pokot County has very many mineral resources within areas that have not undergone adjudication. Therefore the land committees in such areas should do enough consultations to avoid disagreements,” advised Saruni.
He urged those willing to do mining in the county to liaise with the Mining Office domiciled at the Kapenguria county headquarters to avoid breaking the law. The event saw the issuance of five Community Land title deeds.
By Richard Muhambe and Parklea Ivor
