Taita Taveta County calls for joint effort to resolve land ownership conflicts

Taita Taveta County government has called on the Ministry of Tourism to collaborate with the Ministry of Lands in assisting locals living adjacent to Tsavo National Park in resolving land ownership challenges, which have been a longstanding conflict, to ensure justice prevails, as well as equitable revenue sharing from Tsavo Park.

Residents of Taita Taveta County have applauded the move stating it would help solve land ownership conflicts that have been a challenge for years within the Tsavo area.

“We have been struggling with land ownership issues for years, which is affecting our livelihoods. We appreciate the government's intervention to resolve these challenges and ensure fairness in revenue sharing from Tsavo Park. It is about time justice prevails for the residents living adjacent to the park,” said Leah Maghanga.

Humphrey Mkawasi, another resident said the collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Lands is a step in the right direction.

“We, as residents, rely on the park for our income, but the unresolved land disputes have hindered our progress. We hope this initiative brings about tangible solutions that benefit both the community and the conservation efforts in Tsavo National Park,” he said.

During the meeting on Wednesday, the county leader Andrew Mwadime encouraged Tourism Cabinet Secretary Dr Alfred Mutua to work with the Ministry of Lands to assist residents near Tsavo National Park in settling land ownership issues that have been contentious for some time.

The governor also highlighted the significance of granting contracts for diverse park activities to locals, stating it will enable them to empower themselves and feel a sense of ownership over their resources.

Additionally, he stressed the need for a higher percentage of local representation in the employment of KWS officials.

"The challenge of unemployment among my people has become persistent. Tourism could be the solution to this if we embrace it and tailor it to our expectations. I appeal for cooperation between this ministry and the Ministry of Transport to facilitate SGR train services at night in Voi town. This will enhance tourism and also our economy," said Governor Mwadime.

At the same time, Governor Mwadime mentioned that the ministry's initiative to establish cultural exhibition spaces, where tourists will be required to experience this heritage firsthand, will help to motivate the locals and revive the culture of the Taita Taveta communities.

The Tourism Ministry is actively working to discover additional attractions and new approaches to draw tourists, aiming to enhance the sector's performance nationwide, not just in Taita Taveta County.

Speaking at a gathering with industry players at Taita Taveta County Governor Andrew Mwadime's office in Mwatate town, Tourism CS Mutua noted the importance of developing fresh approaches to attract tourists.

He said that since the colonial era, the country has been primarily focused on wildlife tourism, which he believes must change.

CS Mutua further underlined the significance of improving the basic infrastructure in all tourism areas to meet visitors' needs who generate significant money for the country.

"I am aware of the existence of many tourism sources, and my ministry will further enhance them. The activity of installing an electric fence 120 kilometres away is to prevent wildlife from interacting with residents, and the compensation plan for those affected by wildlife is ongoing," said CS Mutua.