Hassan Joho, Muhammad Swazuri reach deal over compensation

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho and National Land Commission (NLC) chairman Muhammad Swazuri have ironed out their differences on the compensation of people affected by the Standard Gauge Railway and Dongo Kundu projects in the county.

The county officials and the commission have in the past differed over the amount offered to affected families stalling the mega SGR project. Yesterday, the NLC chairman said squatters occupying land earmarked for the two projects would receive compensation on Monday.

Dr Swazuri announced that China Road and Bridge Corporation would now roll out the SGR project.

Previously, the commission had indicated that Sh4.4 billion was set aside for compensation of land and property for fishermen and other victims within the county.

But yesterday, Swazuri said they were working on new figures and the amount would be known by Monday.

The commission plans to compensate 198 landowners, 1,600 fishermen for loss of landing sites and 400 owners of structures.

He said Mombasa County Government has denied claims it was against the multi-billion shilling project. “The Mombasa County has denied claims, it was opposed to the project,” he said.

Swazuri disclosed that the only problem they were facing was fair compensation of squatters to allow the project continue.

He said during a meeting at Flamingo beach resort in Mombasa yesterday, the stakeholders discussed how the compensation would be done and ensure the railway project commenced in the county. “From Monday and almost the whole weekend, we shall address the compensation and deal with everybody on the ground,” he said.