Kisii, Kenya – Residents of South Nyanza have called on the government to increase the number of Land Registrars and Valuers at the sub-county level. This appeal was made during a public participation exercise on the Land Laws (Amendment) Bill 2023 at the Kisii Cultural Hall in Kisii town. The aim is to facilitate easier access to land services and reduce the need for long-distance travel to county offices.
According to Kenya News Agency, Rongo Sub County Land Control Board Chairman Dan Oyugi emphasized the burden residents of Migori, Homa Bay, and parts of Kuria currently face, having to travel to Kisii county for certain land services. He also called for the regular payment of stipends to members of the Land Control Boards.
Kisii County is responding to these needs by proposing the opening of two additional registries in Nyamache and Gucha Sub Counties. James Mbogo, Chairman of the Sameta Sub County Land Control Board, commended the Ministry for organizing the public participation forum and stressed the importance of including local input in the reforms.
The Land Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeks to amend various acts and regulations pertaining to land registration, control, and planning. The bill includes amendments to the Registration of Documents Act, the Land Control Act, the Land Registration Act 2012, among others. It also proposes changes to regulations concerning survey, community land, planning fees, valuers, and general land registration.
Public participation forums are being held nationwide to gather input from Kenyans. Citizens can submit their views via email at leviesregulations@gmail.com until November 27, as part of the amendment process.