Isiolo County unveils 10-year land use plan to curb insecurity and human–wildlife conflict

Isiolo County is taking bold steps to tackle insecurity and human-wildlife conflict through the newly proposed Oldonyiro Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan (2024–2034).

The plan, spearheaded by the County Government of Isiolo's Department of Lands and Physical Planning, seeks to bring order to land use in Oldonyiro Ward and neighbouring trading centres, ensuring balanced development that protects both communities and wildlife habitats.

Developed in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the Wyss Academy for Nature, Save the Elephants, and the Grevy's Zebra Trust, the plan will guide how land is allocated, managed, and secured over the next decade.

Isiolo Deputy Governor James Lowasa said the plan aligns with Governor Abdi Guyo's commitment to tackling insecurity in the region.

"There are different causes of insecurity, and human-wildlife conflict remains a major one in Isiolo," said Dr Lowasa. "Our Governor's manifesto focuses on improving security in the county, and this plan will help us achieve that by organising land use and protecting community spaces."

Frequent clashes between herders, farmers, and wildlife have long threatened lives and livelihoods in Oldonyiro. The new framework is expected to designate safe wildlife corridors and clearly demarcate grazing and settlement zones — reducing confrontation and promoting coexistence.

According to Chief Officer for Lands and Physical Planning, Francis Lekalisimi, the plan integrates strategies that balance human settlement, agricultural activity, and environmental conservation.

"This plan promotes sustainable land use by combining urban growth, agricultural productivity, and wildlife protection," said Lekalisimi. "It's about ensuring that development and nature can thrive side by side."

The plan also addresses access and infrastructure issues that have complicated emergency response in Oldonyiro. Many land parcels previously lacked roads or clear boundaries, making it difficult to respond to crises such as fires or floods.

County Secretary Dade Boru commended the technical team and partners for their work.

"We can't fail to recognise the effort put in by our officers and partners. We now have a comprehensive draft plan that can guide Oldonyiro into a secure and sustainable future," he said.

The National Land Commission's Deputy Director of Natural Resources and Environment, Benard Opaa, highlighted the broader national significance.

"Proper planning promotes order, optimal land use, and ecosystem coexistence, reducing conflicts, accelerating development, and ensuring security for communities and investors alike," said Opaa.

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• Northern Kenya
• insecurity
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• FAO
• Human-wildlife conflict
• Governor Abdi Guyo
• Isiolo County unveils 10-year land use plan to curb insecurity and human–wildlife conflict
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Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), led by Deputy Speaker David Lemantile (Oldonyiro Ward) and Lands Committee Chair Abdinoor Dima Jillo (Kina Ward), expressed full support for the plan's swift adoption.

"We've witnessed land conflicts nationally and globally. If this plan can help prevent such disputes, the Assembly will support its implementation," said Abdinoor.

The Oldonyiro Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan (2024–2034) is expected to be validated soon, paving the way for more structured, secure, and environmentally conscious growth in Isiolo.

"Land planning is not just about development — it's about peace, security, and ensuring that both people and wildlife have a place to thrive," Dr Lowasa.