Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has announced a bold initiative aimed at recovering billions in outstanding county debts to finance critical infrastructure and development projects in the County.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Mombasa Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited (MOWASSCO) offices, the Governor outlined a series of measures targeting non-compliant property owners, particularly those with unpaid land rates.
One of the central issues raised was the status of a MOWASSCO property that had previously been damaged by fire. Currently under the Coast Water Authority, the property is scheduled for transfer to the County Government.
Nassir revealed plans to redevelop the site and integrate it into the county’s urban modernisation strategy, removing temporary wooden structures and encouraging permanent, high-quality developments in the city.
“As a county, we cannot depend solely on national government allocations,” he stated. “We must mobilise our internal revenue by ensuring everyone pays what they owe.”
The Governor also reaffirmed the administration’s decision to offer interest and penalty waivers on land rates until the end of May. This waiver is intended to encourage defaulters to clear their dues. However, he expressed concern that despite the gesture, a significant number of landowners have yet to pay.
“Our goal is to support residents by giving them this opportunity, but if they ignore it, we will have no choice but to take action,” he warned.
Furthermore, he noted that the properties which will remain unpaid for after the deadline will be handed over to debt collectors.
Governor Nassir referred to the Land Rate Act signed into law by the President, which authorizes counties to use all lawful means to recover unpaid rates. He emphasised that while the county prefers amicable solutions, it is prepared to escalate recovery efforts if necessary.
“Under the Land Rates Act, signed into law by the President, counties are empowered to recover rent, engage debt collectors, and even auction property if necessary. We hope not to reach that point. That is why we are extending the waiver period,” he stated.
The Governor also revealed that two legislative proposals are underway aimed at ring fencing that revenue collected and ensuring the funds are directed specifically toward development projects, particularly the construction of healthcare and public infrastructure.
“We must safeguard the collected funds for development only and not for recurrent expenditure such as salaries. These new laws will help us ring-fence the money and build a better Mombasa,” he added.
The County Executive Committee Member for Finance is expected to formally announce the extension of the waiver period, allowing residents until the end of the month to settle their debts without additional penalties.
“Some residents have taken advantage of the waiver, but the majority have not paid. We have not increased our rates, and we expected property owners to settle their dues. Without this revenue, implementing our development agenda and infrastructure projects will be impossible,” he said.
The Governor reiterated his commitment to transparency, stating that a report outlining redevelopment plans for the MOWASSCO property will be released later this week. He called on all Mombasa residents to unite in supporting the county’s development efforts by fulfilling their financial obligations. “We are building Mombasa with what is ours,” he said.
By Shamim Musa and Covenant Njeru
