A non-governmental organization, Habitat for Humanity Kenya (HFHK) has issued 12,520 title deeds to residents of Ndhiwa and Rangwe sub-counties in Homa Bay.
In partnership with the National Land Commission, the Ministry of Lands, the Law Society of Kenya, KELIN, and ActionAid, HFHK which advocates for decent and affordable housing for low-income earners in Homa Bay, is raising awareness through sensitization programs on succession processes.
These initiatives aim to educate the community on land security, with a special focus on women, who are among the most vulnerable groups.
HFHK Advocacy Lead, Millicent Adhiambo, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting women by advocating for their land rights, noting that only a small percentage of them own land.
A study by the Kenya Land Alliance reveals that land ownership in Kenya is overwhelmingly male-dominated, while men own 96 percent of the land, women account for only one percent of landowners and three percent of land is under joint ownership.
The findings highlight a significant gender disparity, despite women providing the majority of labor, about 60 per cent in agricultural and land-related activities, she added saying it is unfair, as women contribute significantly but have little control over land ownership.
“This data is crucial for shaping gender mainstreaming efforts. We must be intentional about empowering women in land ownership and educating them on the benefits of securing land tenure,” she stated.
She pointed out that the study underscores the need for policy reforms, legal protections, and awareness campaigns to ensure women have equal access to land, fostering economic empowerment and social equity.
Speaking at Ratanga Primary School in Ndhiwa during the distribution of the title deeds, Adhiambo expressed hope that more women would own land in the future.
She emphasized that increasing women’s land ownership is crucial for securing matrimonial property and safeguarding children’s inheritance.
Adhiambo highlighted that distributing title deeds brings essential services closer to the people while also raising awareness about land tenure security.
She stressed the importance of educating communities on succession processes, land transfers, and legal land ownership procedures to ensure rightful ownership and protection of land rights.
HFHK is dedicated to securing land and housing for vulnerable communities and has already built approximately 100 houses for families, with 34 more currently under construction in Ndhiwa.
“Adequate housing goes beyond just four walls and a roof, it includes access to essential services such as clean water, quality shelter, education, and proper healthcare. Since land is the foundation of every home, securing it is crucial. As part of our efforts to promote secure land tenure, we have collaborated with partners to raise awareness on this issue,” she stated.
Adhiambo encouraged recipients of the documents to begin succession processes, emphasizing that the only recognized form of land ownership is through individual title deeds.
By Sitna Omar
