Senator Lemaletian Raises Alarm Over Oljorai Farm Land Dispute
Senator Hezena Lemaletian has brought to the forefront concerns regarding the enduring land ownership dispute at Oljorai Farm, located in Mbaruk-Eburu Ward, Gilgil Constituency, Nakuru County. Speaking in the Senate today, she urged the Standing Committee on Land, Environment and Natural Resources to investigate the lack of implementation of a 1998 directive by former President Daniel Moi.
The directive mandated that 14,000 acres of Oljorai Farm be allocated to the Maasai and other minor communities residing there. Additionally, it called for the distribution of land from the Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) Mutara Ranch in Laikipia and ADC Ndabibi Farm in Naivasha to the Ruyobei group.
Senator Lemaletian pressed the committee, chaired by Senator John Methu, to clarify actions taken to revoke a controversial 1997 sale of 8,000 acres of Phase 1 land at Oljorai Farm to the Ruyobei group from Solai, Baringo County. This transaction occurred without the consultation or consent of the local residents, raising significant legal and ethical questions.
“The Lands Committee must provide a status update on the demarcation of Oljorai Farm and specify when title deeds will be issued to the resident Maasai and other communities who have established homes, schools, markets, and infrastructure on the land,” Lemaletian stated.
She further emphasized the importance of ensuring that residents are adequately informed and consulted regarding decisions affecting their land. The committee has been tasked with investigating the ongoing delays in resolving this protracted land ownership issue and is expected to report back to the Senate with findings and recommendations.
The resolution of the Oljorai Farm dispute is critical for the affected communities, who have long awaited clarity and justice regarding their ancestral lands.
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