Land dispute fuels rising tension at Kuranze Ranch, community demands govt intervention

Tension is rising at Kuranze Ranch, Kinango Sub-County, as unidentified persons compete for a 69.5-hectare community property plot.

The area, which was just restored to the community and earmarked for adjudication and future development, is now the source of an escalating disagreement.

Residents claim that approximately 230 unknown people have been unlawfully listed for land distribution.

Kuranze Mining Community Chairman Ngala Mwamdzomba has urged the government to take action against those culpable.

"Kuranze was peaceful until the land issue arose. One individual should not terrorise the entire village. We need immediate government intervention," Mwamdzomba stated.

He also asked for immediate government intervention to prevent further interruptions in mining operations.

"This is a mining and pasture area. The current scenario is frustrating and jeopardises our activities. We need a permanent solution to this problem," he stated.

Village Chairman Justin Mwachala expressed dismay at the situation, emphasising that the site was intended to be developed with proper planning, not sold off in secret.

"We need the government to investigate and address the issue, as it appears that the perpetrator has powerful backing," he said.

Pastoralist Abdi Abdulah Abdi emphasised the negative effects of livestock farming.

"We're losing grazing land because we can't use land sold to others. Our livestock is stolen daily, and security agencies have done nothing to stop it," Abdi said.

Area MCA James Dawa blamed the unrest on a rogue community member and his accomplices, who are accused of illegally selling the land.

"This individual has been a thorn in our side and the source of our issues. "They've been selling land for as little as Sh1,100 for 50 acres," Dawa explained, emphasising the urgency of the problem.

The Kwale County government has already identified external boundaries with plans to begin the second phase of spatial planning.

A section of Kuranze town in Kwale county. Photo; Mishi Gongo

The Kuranze community is mostly dependent on mining, cattle rearing, and business operations. The area is rich in minerals such as ruby, copper, and green granite.

Kuranze Mining City, a planned mining hub, is expected to considerably benefit the local and national economies.

In addition to mining, the county government anticipates a wildlife corridor to boost tourism and critical food production to ensure food security in Kinango and Kwale County.

Dawa stated that efforts are underway to establish a mining town, mineral collection centre, wildlife corridor, and agricultural park to ensure that mineral resources benefit the local community and the regional economy.

Despite these attempts, a community member has been masquerading as a government official, issuing land to foreigners at a low rate.

Dawa claimed that the individual implicated obtained protection from specific security officers who were promised significant land parcels in exchange for their assistance.

"We reported the incident, but no legal action was taken. The perpetrators continue to sell the land and walk away unpunished," Dawa claimed.

Dawa stated that with mineral riches such as ruby and copper in the area, proper management of the Kuranze territory might benefit both Kwale County and the national economy.

As the community deals with the ongoing crisis, strong government action remains crucial to restoring peace and facilitating growth.