By Jeff Kizzilah Digital EditorThe Senate Standing Committee on Lands, Environment and Natural Resources has launched an on-the-ground probe into some of Nairobi’s most contentious land disputes, with residents of Ziwani, Pumwani Majengo and Korogocho accusing powerful interests of orchestrating land grabs, forced evictions and historical injustices.
Led by Senators Joe Nyutu, Allan Chesang, Beatrice Ogolla and Mariam Omar, the committee conducted site visits to the affected areas to investigate petitions centered on ownership disputes, eviction threats and alleged irregular acquisition of public land.
In Ziwani Estate, members of the Single Mothers Association of Kenya (SMAK) pleaded for Senate intervention, claiming they have lived on the land since 1992 under an allocation by the former Nairobi City Council but remain without ownership documents despite years of paying land rent and processing allotment paperwork.
The residents alleged that they have faced repeated harassment, demolition threats and eviction notices even as they continue to seek recognition of their rights from Nairobi City County.
Senator Beatrice Ogolla assured the residents that the committee would thoroughly examine their grievances and protect the rights of vulnerable groups.
“Every Kenyan deserves fair treatment and transparency in matters concerning land ownership and housing security,” she said.
The committee then moved to Pumwani Majengo, where residents accused individuals and private entities of grabbing public land, including spaces previously reserved for schools, health facilities and playgrounds.
The Cultural Environmental Care Society (CECARE Society) told senators that LR No. 209/2378/1 was allegedly converted from public land into private ownership, resulting in displacement, loss of property and encroachment on critical community facilities.
Senator Allan Chesang noted that the allegations raised serious concerns about public accountability and the protection of communities that have occupied the area for generations.
“These are matters that require careful scrutiny and accountability from all institutions involved,” he stated.
Senator Mariam Omar warned against unlawful encroachment on public amenities, saying oversight agencies have a duty to establish the facts and safeguard community interests.
The final stop was Korogocho, where residents voiced fears over possible evictions linked to the Nairobi River Corridor regeneration programme.
Community members claimed they were excluded from meaningful public participation and warned that hundreds of families risk displacement without clear compensation or resettlement plans.
Senator Joe Nyutu assured residents that the Senate would closely examine concerns surrounding compensation, relocation and public participation before making its recommendations.
“We want development projects implemented within the law and with full respect for the rights of affected communities,” he said.
The committee is expected to review submissions from residents, government agencies and other stakeholders before tabling recommendations that could shape the future of some of Nairobi’s most disputed parcels of land.
The visits have intensified scrutiny over allegations of land grabbing, historical injustices and the treatment of vulnerable communities, placing renewed pressure on authorities to resolve disputes that have remained unresolved for decades.
