The Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, has urged Kenyans to live harmoniously and support vulnerable members of the society as Muslims across the country marked Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.
Speaking in Mombasa after Eid-ul-Adha prayers, Joho called on Kenyans to embrace unity, sacrifice, and compassion in their daily lives.
“Life is about sacrifice, not selfishness, but doing good for others, neighbours, and the country,” he said, drawing parallels with Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail.
The CS lauded the recent presidential tour of the Coast region, saying it provided an opportunity for the Head of state to engage residents and address long-standing challenges affecting the region.
During the visit, the President issued 33,000 title deeds to residents of Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, and Taita Taveta counties.
In the next 90 days, the government is expected to issue an additional 200,000 title deeds after purchasing land from absentee landlords in a bid to resolve the squatter problem at the coast.
“This is the first time we are seeing the government purchase a huge number of parcels of land already occupied by citizens so they can finally be settled and the issue of land ownership resolved once and for all,” he stated.
Joho said the government has a duty to create an enabling environment for employment and investment in the region.
He highlighted ongoing projects aimed at reducing post-harvest losses among fisherfolk through the construction of cold storage facilities and fish markets.
On politics, the CS said ambition is a natural part of leadership, while remaining non-committal on speculation linking him to a possible deputy presidential role under the Broad-Based Government.
“Like any other human being, it is okay to be ambitious, but I haven’t told you what I want today. Tomorrow’s journey is planned today, and there is no harm in galvanizing our people,” he said.
“If we want to remain relevant in the political space, then we must unite today and work purposefully for the future together,” he added.
The CS also warned against the politicisation of land matters, affirming the government’s commitment to resolving historical land injustices at the Coast.
Meanwhile, Nyali parliamentary aspirant, Said Abdalla, said the presidential visit had brought hope to residents through efforts to address the long-standing land question.
“For years, land issues have been used as a political tool, but now we are seeing action through the issuance of title deeds to our parents. They are rejoicing because future generations will not suffer the same land problems. Auctioneers have been harassing our parents,” said Abdalla.
“I believe by 2027, land issues will no longer be used as a campaign tool, and leaders will instead focus on other development issues during political rallies,” he added.
by Sadik Hassan
