In a landmark moment for land rights in Kenya, Lands Principal Secretary Nixon Korir on Thursday issued 2,500 title deeds to residents of Churo/Amaya Ward in Tiaty Constituency, Baringo County, marking the first time the community has received official land ownership documents.
Addressing the community at AIC Churo Girls High School, PS Korir said the exercise was a direct directive from President William Ruto as part of efforts to address historical injustices and service delivery gaps in the region.
“I have been sent here by the President. It was a promise he made when he issued title deeds to the residents of Chemolingot,” said Korir. “This is a step towards equity and recognition for a community long left behind.”
The issuance marks a turning point for many residents who have lived for decades without legal proof of land ownership. Local leaders and elders described the moment as transformational for the Pokot community.
“We were squatting on our own land. We are no longer squatters, and we thank President Ruto’s government,” said Daniel Kapedo, chairman of the local land adjudication committee.
Former councillor Gideon Kamama added, “We were the only ones left behind when others received title deeds. Now we feel like Kenyans.”
Musa Amogon, chairman of the council of elders, echoed these sentiments, saying, “We were treated unfairly by past governments. Pokots had never seen title deeds before President Ruto came into office.”
Tiaty MP William Kamket, who hosted the event, praised the national government for finally addressing the community’s long-standing grievances.
In addition to the land titles, PS Korir pledged support for local education infrastructure, announcing that the government will collaborate with the Ministry of Education to build a science laboratory and fence AIC Churo Girls High School to enhance safety and learning.
“I encourage the community to take their girls to school. Education is key to development,” he added.
The event marked not just the transfer of documents, but a broader symbol of inclusion, security, and government commitment to historically marginalized regions.
Written By Rodney Mbua
