NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya is witnessing significant benefits from the digitalization of its land sector, according to Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome.
The transition to digital land records and automated management processes in Nairobi and Murang’a has ushered in a new era of efficiency and transparency.
Transforming Land Transactions with Technology
Speaking at the third regional research conference on land and natural resources at the Kenya School of Government, CS Wahome, through Acting Secretary of Lands Sarah Maina, highlighted the positive impact of these technological advancements.
“Digitalization has helped us in embracing improved ease of doing business, increased accessibility of land services, and enhanced transparency in day-to-day land transactions,” she stated.
The cornerstone of this digital transformation is the National Land Information System (NLIMS), also known as the “Ardhisasa” system.
This platform has revolutionized land transactions by reducing the need for time-consuming physical visits to land offices.
“Land transactions that were handled through paper forms and files have today turned into e-systems, while physical visits to land offices have been reduced as services are delivered at the touch of a button,” Wahome explained.
This shift not only streamlines processes but also supports timely decision-making in the land governance sector.
Enhancing Transparency and Reducing Conflicts
Wahome emphasized that the digital system is crucial for accurately classifying and mapping land, especially in areas with disputes or irregular allocations.
This move is aimed at reducing conflicts and ensuring that land information is accessible in a user-friendly manner.
Moreover, the Ministry of Lands has embraced financial technology (FinTech) by adopting cashless transactions through Mpesa mobile money payment services.
This innovation has replaced conventional cash payments, further streamlining revenue collection and enhancing transparency.
The Future of Land Governance in Kenya
Mr. Gershom Otachi, Chairman of the National Land Commission (NLC), echoed the sentiment that data and technology are pivotal in modernizing land governance.
“Kenya, like other nations, endeavours to harness the transformative power of data, innovation, and technology in solving multifaceted challenges in land governance,” Otachi noted.
He highlighted the adoption of blockchain technology, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and drone technology to improve land registration, title management, and create detailed, interactive maps.
These advancements are not just about improving efficiency; they are also about ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. They address critical issues like land tenure security, land use planning, environmental sustainability, and resource distribution.
