Land Grabbing Menace in Malindi

A section of locals from Malindi and Magarini Constituencies in Kilifi County have held protests over claimed land grabbing of beach land which was set aside for the beachfront projects.

Land grabbing which is said to target land on the shores of the Indian Ocean is set to accommodate a beachfront project from Vasco Da Gama to the Sabaki bridge area.

Residents hit the streets carrying posters written ‘Stop land grabbing in Malindi’, ‘Stop trespassing on private land’, ‘Governor Mung’aro tetea haki za mashamba’ (Governor Mung’aro safeguard land rights)

The residents were led by the former councillor of Sabaki Ward, Timothy Mwambogo in the protest which took place along the streets of Malindi Golf Club Road.

Mwambogo stated that some tycoons were invading the area’s beachfront project which was set to construct a recreational project to promote tourism.

The first phase of the beachfront project was completed at the Buntuani Waterfront Park while the second phase was set to begin this year.

Mwambogo added that the land grabbers collaborated with dishonest county officials and some officials in the Ministry of Lands to get documentation.

Mwambogo asked the Commissioner of Lands, Surveyors and Physical planning officers to come out and explain how those land grabbers were able to possess title deeds of lands which were meant for other purposes.

On the other hand, Kilifi County Governor, Gideon Mung’aro said no one was permitted to produce title deeds from land that is set aside for other purposes.