The entrance of the Kakuzi factory in Makuyu Muranga County. Photo/Courtesy.
Kakuzi PLC has been ordered to surrender 3,200 acres of its land after the National Land Commission (NLC) issued binding directives aimed at resolving long-standing historical land injustice claims involving communities around the company’s estates.
In a notice to shareholders and the public, the company said the NLC had completed its investigative hearing and issued a set of binding recommendations intended to conclude long-running disputes involving communities living around Kakuzi’s land.
“Kakuzi PLC is required to surrender 3,200 acres of appropriated land to settle the most vulnerable members of the claimants,” read the notice, outlining the NLC’s directive as the foundation of the final setlement.
The NLC also instructed the Ministry of Lands, the Directorate of Land Adjudication and Settlement, the Ministry of Interior and other agencies to work jointly with Kakuzi to profile affected persons and execute the settlement in phases.
“The Director of Land Adjudication and Settlement, in consultation with Kakuzi PLC and relevant government institutions, shall complete, profile and conclude the settlement in Phase IV,” the statement added.
Further, the company has been directed to relocate schools, public utilities and open access roads within the affected areas in coordination with public agencies. It must also formalise and document surrendered land with the County Government of Murang’a, including market centres and other civic facilities.
“The Respondent Kakuzi PLC shall relocate schools and public utilities within the areas in close cooperation with public departments and open proper access roads,” the notice stated.
The NLC additionally recommended that Kakuzi set aside five acres for recreational amenities to support community well-being.Kakuzi, which is listed on both the Nairobi Securities Exchange and the London Stock Exchange, said it remains committed to cooperating with authorities while safeguarding shareholder interests.
The agribusiness firm, a major producer of macadamia, avocados, tea, blueberries and commercial forestry, noted that it has always relied on legal land tenure and responsible operations.
