By Naftal Makori and Eric Abuga

Kisii, Kenya: Lack of adequate land due to population pressure in Kisii and Nyamira counties is hurting growth and investment.

The counties also have to contend with subdivision of land into small units that are not economically viable as well as lack of physical plans as they seek to woo investors.

Governor John Nyagarama (Nyamira) and James Ongwae (Kisii) admit that unavailability of land is a major impediment to the growth of the two devolved units.

Nyamira’s population density is 665 people per square kilometre compared to Kisii’s 874.7 people per square kilometre.

Unlike Machakos County with expansive land and where Governor Alfred Mutua has offered free land to potential investors, land in the counties is scarce commodity.

Nyamira County executive in charge of Lands, Physical Planning and Housing Richard Mareri said unavailability of land within the three major towns in Nyamira County was a major concern.

Residents who own land within the towns are now being encouraged by the county government to sell the plots to investors.

“There are firms that have proposed to invest in real estate here but locals appear unwilling to sell their property,” Mareri told The Standard.

He said his office was carrying out an audit of all available land and would purchase more to facilitate development.

 He also appealed to residents who may wish to donate their land for county development to do so.

Nyamira County Governor Nyagarama said they are developing a master plan for Nyamira, Keroka and Nyansiongo towns so as to give them a facelift and make them attractive to investors.

Repossess all

Ongwae, on the other hand, says there are working on plans to acquire more land and make it available for investors.

“There can be a few challenges with land because of the population density here. But we are there plans to repossess all parcels that were illegally acquired,” he said.

He said his administration might also be forced to buy land from individuals.

Ongwae has already directed all land officers in the county not carry out any transction on public land until advised otherwise.

Nyamira Deputy County Commissioner Denis Kirui said land disputes are often a major cause of murders reported in the area.