Uasin Gishu County is taking bold steps to address the growing issue of land fragmentation, which has been hampering agricultural productivity. The county's Department of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development unveiled a new draft land policy today, aimed at promoting land consolidation and tackling the challenges of increasingly subdivided agricultural land.
The policy was presented during a public consultation in Kapseret and Kesses Sub-Counties, where hundreds of residents gathered to share their views. This initiative comes at a time when Uasin Gishu, a region known for its agricultural potential, is grappling with land fragmentation exacerbated by urban expansion and a rapidly growing population.
Land fragmentation has become a significant issue in the county, with smaller plots of land making it harder for farmers to sustain productive farming operations. The new policy seeks to encourage landowners to consolidate their holdings, allowing for more efficient and productive agricultural activities.
Ms. Linda Achieng, a representative from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), spoke at the event, highlighting Uasin Gishu's reputation as one of Kenya's most fertile regions. “While the county is blessed with abundant natural resources, land fragmentation threatens its agricultural output,” she said. "Through land consolidation, we hope to improve productivity, enhance food security, and ensure the viability of our agricultural land for future generations."
To support this initiative, the county is setting up a Geographic Information System (GIS) Lab, funded by FAO. The GIS Lab will provide vital data on land ownership and use, helping to track the extent of land fragmentation and identify opportunities for consolidation. The technology will also enable county officials to monitor land trends and tailor policies that foster more