NAIROBI, Kenya – Members of Parliament are pressing the government to urgently adopt a national land use policy, warning that uncontrolled subdivision of farmland for housing and commercial projects is threatening Kenya’s food security.
The legislators voiced concern over the shrinking acreage under agriculture, linking it to rapid, unplanned settlements that are steadily encroaching on rural farmland.
Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, who tabled the motion in Parliament, said the unchecked conversion of agricultural land is undermining productivity and worsening the country’s food security outlook.
“Agricultural land in rural areas is continuously being subdivided into small plots for construction, significantly reducing the amount of land available for farming. This calls for urgent measures to ensure effective land use across the country to optimise agricultural output,” Wanyonyi told the House.
If adopted, the proposed policy would designate and protect agricultural zones from commercial or residential development.
Wanyonyi argued that consolidating land and zoning it for specific uses would not only safeguard farmland but also reduce land-related conflicts.
He cited the uprooting of coffee trees in traditional growing regions to pave way for housing projects as a clear example of development undermining food production.
“A lack of clear land use guidelines often leads to conflict and violence. This motion seeks to prevent such conflicts between agricultural and built environments,” he said, adding that the policy would balance economic development, environmental conservation, and food security.
The motion calls for collaboration between key ministries, including Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Environment, and Agriculture, as well as consultation with farmers, developers, and local communities.
Wanyonyi stressed that land use planning must also factor in environmental protection, including the conservation of water catchment areas and natural habitats.
Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli seconded the motion, warning that fertile land was being consumed by real estate at an alarming rate.
“Fertile land is being turned into housing estates. Unless this is addressed, our agricultural land will continue to diminish,” Sunkuli said.
He noted that while housing demand is growing due to population pressure, the government must draw a clear line between residential development and farmland preservation.
If implemented, MPs believe the land use policy would protect farmland, enhance productivity, and guarantee sustainable access to public amenities, while ensuring public participation in decision-making.
