Kenya: NLC Seeks Public Input On New Historical Land Injustices Regulations

What the report says

The National Land Commission in Kenya is seeking public feedback on draft rules meant to reshape how historical land injustices are handled. According to Capital FM, as republished by AllAfrica, the Commission says views gathered through ongoing forums will help build a stronger framework for receiving, examining and resolving long-running land grievances.

The public consultations are discussing the Draft National Land Commission (Investigation of Historical Land Injustices) Regulations, 2026, which are intended to replace earlier rules from 2017. The proposed changes are meant to make the process for filing claims, screening applications, investigating cases, holding hearings and issuing determinations more clear and structured. They also include a more defined approach to reviews and appeals.

The latest forum was held at the ACK Amani Conference Centre and brought together representatives from Nakuru and Nyandarua counties. NLC Commissioner Mary Seneta, who chairs the Historical Land Injustices Committee, said community experiences and stakeholder input are important to achieving lasting solutions. She said the Commission wants the process to support land justice, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.

Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones urged the NLC to prioritize disputes in several areas, including Dundori, Solai, Kiptangwany, Elementaita, Maiella, Nessuit, Mauche, Soin and Subukia. He said unresolved ownership claims and undocumented rights have been passed down across generations and can fuel tension, displacement and violence. Commissioner Mohammed Haji also noted that land disputes in Kenya often involve identity, history and community relations, not only property rights.