Leaders in Trans Nzoia County have raised concerns over alleged land cartels exploiting historical debts tied to the Settlement Fund Trustees (SFT) programme to illegally acquire land in Keiyo Ward.
Some of the areas most affected by these disputes include Kapkoi, Kolongolo, and Keiyo.
The warning came during a consultative forum organised by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) at Keese Primary School, where leaders discussed the ongoing land disputes affecting residents in the area.
Trans Nzoia Woman Representative Lilian Siyoi urged affected residents not to live in fear, noting that the national government is being engaged to waive outstanding SFT debts to help resolve the long-standing disputes.
“We have asked the President to consider cancelling these historical debts so that residents can secure ownership of their land and reduce the conflicts being witnessed,” she said.
Affected landowners were allocated parcels of land in 1974 under a government settlement programme administered by the Settlement Fund Trustees.
Each beneficiary received approximately one and a half acres, with the arrangement requiring gradual repayment of the purchase cost.
However, many settlers were unable to complete their payments, resulting in accumulated debts that remain unresolved decades later.
These unresolved SFT debts have created a loophole that land brokers and wealthy individuals are allegedly exploiting to acquire land from financially struggling settlers. Over the years, individuals with greater financial capacity have reportedly purchased parcels of land from indebted settlers, sparking numerous ownership disputes as some original occupants and their families contest the legality of these transactions.
Local leaders say the situation has strained community relations and heightened tensions in several parts of the ward. They believe that clearing the debts would allow residents to obtain proper land titles, significantly reducing disputes and preventing illegal acquisitions.
Area Senator Allan Chesang warned suspected land grabbers that they will not be allowed to take advantage of vulnerable residents.
“We will not allow land grabbers to exploit the less privileged members of our community. Anyone attempting illegal land acquisitions should know that leaders and the community are watching closely,” Chesang said.
Endebess MP Dr. Robert Pukose also cautioned wealthy individuals against purchasing disputed land without the consent of the original occupants.
“Those buying land in these areas must follow the law and obtain the consent of the rightful owners. We will not allow people with money to intimidate or displace vulnerable residents through questionable land deals,” Pukose said.
He urged all stakeholders to prioritize peaceful coexistence as leaders work with the national government to find a lasting solution to the land disputes affecting Kwanza Ward and surrounding areas.
