Landowners in Lukenya West, Mavoko, Machakos County, are appealing to the government to intervene and stop a developer accused of encroaching on their properties.
The residents claim they were required to pay a Sh200,000 regularization fee to Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) for each parcel of 50 by 100 feet to cover valuation, survey, and processing fees. Despite paying the amount, a new developer has allegedly taken over the land, guarded by armed security.
The disputed land was initially owned by the East African Portland Cement Company (EAPC) but was acquired by KCB as part of a debt settlement. Landowners were promised legitimate ownership upon payment of the regularization fee.
Landowners Speak Out
Mark Nzioki, a Lukenya resident since 2015, expressed frustration after paying Sh1.6 million for eight parcels of land. Despite following due process, including obtaining receipts from KCB and placing beacons with a surveyor’s assistance, he discovered that trenches had been dug on his property, with a perimeter wall under construction.
Similarly, Timothy Kioko, a businessman with land along the main road, reported that after paying the fee and receiving receipts, he was asked to demolish his wall. Kioko, who has owned the land for over a decade and invested heavily in it, expressed confusion over why KCB accepted payments knowing the property had a new buyer.
Kioko added that the Sh200,000 fee was not the purchase price. After payment, surveyors estimate the value of the land, with costs ranging from Sh5 million to Sh30 million depending on the size.
Leaders Demand Action
Machakos Woman Representative, Kamene Kasimbi, called on the government and local leaders to stop the encroachment and hold the developer accountable. She criticized KCB for accepting payments from landowners while simultaneously selling the parcels to a new buyer.
“This is a recipe for chaos. We demand the developer to cease construction immediately, and we want KCB to take responsibility,” Kamene said. She labeled the actions of the developer as “unfair and inhuman,” noting that the encroachment began during the holiday season when many residents were away.
Official Response
When contacted, KCB stated that they are aware of the grievances and are investigating the matter.
This controversy follows a previous directive by Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko, who urged residents to cooperate with the regularization process after court-ordered evictions. Ouko emphasized the importance of registration to gain legitimate ownership of the land.
The disputed parcels are located near key landmarks, including the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, Green Park Gardens, and Daystar University. Residents fear further chaos if the government does not intervene to protect their properties.
As tensions rise, landowners are calling for swift action to resolve the dispute and ensure their rights are upheld.
