The National Land Commission (NLC) has convened the 4th Regional Research Conference at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi, which aims to assess the legal, policy, and institutional progress achieved since the 2010 Constitution.
Speaking during the event, Principal Judge of the Environment and Land Court (ELC), Justice Oscar Angote, emphasized the judiciary’s central role in advancing land reforms, calling for enhanced institutional collaboration to secure land rights and redress historical injustices.
“Land is the soul of our heritage and the anchor of our identity. The 2010 Constitution marked a turning point, shifting our approach from treating land as a mere commodity to viewing it as a tool for equity and justice,” said Angote.
He further cited critical jurisprudence from the ELC and the Supreme Court, including rulings that have nullified fraudulently acquired titles, clarified the limitations of the bona fide purchaser doctrine, and held the State accountable in compulsory acquisition cases.
Angote said courts have gradually moved from rigid adherence to the Torrens system to a more justice-oriented approach that upholds fairness and constitutional values.
Justice Angote urged for urgent enactment of pending legislation under Article 68 of the Constitution, especially laws on landholding ceilings, and called for cooperation between the Ministry of Lands and NLC.
“Land reform is not just administrative; it is a socio-political imperative, urging a recommitment to a governance model that promotes inclusivity, equity, and future sustainability,” he said.
NLC Commissioner Esther Murugi Mathenge echoed the urgency of collective action, describing the conference as a crucial platform for reviewing the country’s policy and legal landscape on land matters.
“We must turn knowledge into action. This forum is both a reflection and a rallying call to protect and reform our land sector,” she said.
Mathenge reaffirmed the Commission’s constitutional mandate under Article 67(2)(d), noting that Kenya has made progress, such as establishing the NLC and ELC.
“Serious challenges persist, such as unsustainable land use, encroachment, climate change, cultural norms, and gender inequalities in land ownership and access,” she added.
She also pointed out that the Commission had been actively working to generate evidence-based policies by hosting conferences focused on issues like climate resilience, digital innovation, and food security.
NLC Chief Executive Officer Kabale Tache Arero commended the engagement of partners in organizing the event, noting that the conference presents a vital opportunity to share insights and innovations that will shape future policies.
“It is through shared knowledge and partnerships that we can strengthen land governance and deliver lasting reforms,” Arero said.
The conference, which runs until May 22, is expected to generate actionable recommendations to enhance Kenya’s land governance and accelerate reform in line with constitutional and national development goals.
By Joan Ogolla
