On August 15, 2024, KELIN and the National Land Commission (NLC) convened in Naivasha for a strategic work planning meeting, aimed at advancing the implementation of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This gathering marked a critical milestone in their collaboration, as both organizations reviewed the impact of joint activities carried out in 2022 and 2023 and laid the groundwork for future initiatives.
The meeting’s primary focus was to assess the successes and challenges of their past collaborations and identify key areas of synergy that would enhance the effectiveness of their ongoing efforts. This process resulted in the development of a comprehensive, costed work plan designed to address emerging land governance issues, with a strong emphasis on community-led monitoring and youth integration.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Benard Opaa, Deputy Director of NLC, expressed his appreciation for the partnership with KELIN. He highlighted the importance of critically assessing the advocacy strategies employed, ensuring that they are effective in achieving the intended outcomes. He also underscored the need to incorporate youth perspectives through Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials and to ensure that governance frameworks are at the core of the planning process.
Ms. Jessica Oluoch, Programme Manager of Women Land & Property Rights at KELIN, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Our partnership with the NLC is crucial in ensuring that land governance in Kenya is not only effective but also inclusive. By prioritizing community-led monitoring and documenting the lived experiences of justice recipients, we are putting the voices of those most affected at the heart of our work. This approach will not only strengthen our advocacy but also ensure that our interventions are responsive and impactful.”
Throughout the meeting, participants engaged in breakout and plenary sessions, where they celebrated the achievements of past activities. These successes served as a guiding framework for the creation of the new work plan, ensuring that the momentum gained is sustained and expanded upon.
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to adhere to the agreed-upon guidelines, with quarterly reviews scheduled to ensure that the implementation stays on track. The collaborative effort between KELIN and the NLC continues to be a beacon of hope for communities across Kenya, as they work together to promote and protect health and human rights through effective land governance.
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For more information, please contact.
Trevor Mwangi |Program Associate,
Women Land & Property Rights
P O Box 112 – 00202 KNH Nairobi,
Tel: 020, 2515790 │Mobile: +254710261408
Email: Trevormwangi@kelinkenya.org
