Mombasa Residents Urged to Resolve Decades-Old Land Disputes Through Dialogue

Mombasa County officials are urging residents to adopt dialogue and legal compliance to address long-standing land disputes that have fueled tensions in the region for decades. The call comes as part of ongoing efforts to tackle the complex and deeply rooted land question in the coastal county.

During a public engagement on land reforms, Mohamed Hussein, the County Executive Committee Member for Lands, emphasized the need for collaborative approaches over political rhetoric or prolonged court battles. He encouraged property owners and affected families to pursue alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, highlighting their effectiveness in achieving justice.

Hussein stressed that land conflicts cannot be resolved through confrontation or politicization. Instead, he advocated for stakeholders to come together and find solutions through constructive dialogue. He underscored Kenya's commitment to the rule of law, assuring residents that his office is dedicated to handling land matters with fairness and impartiality.

The county government has intensified efforts to regularize land ownership and address the persistent squatter crisis that has plagued Mombasa for years. In recent months, title deeds have been issued to residents in Miritini (Jomvu) and Chaani (Changamwe), with plans underway to extend similar exercises to other parts of the county. These initiatives aim to provide security of tenure and resolve longstanding ownership disputes.

Hussein also warned residents against being swayed by politicians who exploit land grievances for electoral gain. He cautioned that such leaders often fail to deliver meaningful solutions, urging the public to focus on collaborative and legal pathways instead.

As part of broader land reforms, Mombasa County has established the Ardhi Fund, a World Bank-financed program designed to support the titling process and streamline land administration. The initiative represents a significant step toward addressing historical injustices and ensuring that thousands of families gain secure land ownership. Hussein noted that while the World Bank provides funding, the responsibility for implementation lies with the county, with a priority on delivering justice to residents.

Despite these efforts, Hussein acknowledged the complexity of resolving Mombasa's land question, which is rooted in decades of disputes, displacement, and unresolved claims. He maintained that sustained dialogue and strict adherence to legal procedures offer the best opportunity for achieving lasting solutions.

The county's push for dialogue and reform reflects a commitment to tackling one of Mombasa's most pressing challenges, with the goal of fostering peace, stability, and equitable land ownership for all residents.