Leaders and residents of Mutha Ward in Kitui South have taken a firm stand against displacement during a public participation forum addressing a long-standing land dispute with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
The meeting, held on Friday, brought together the National Assembly’s Lands Committee led by its Chairperson, Edith Nyenze, kitui south Member of Parliament hon Racheal Nyamai and other mps alongside Mutha MCA Dominic Mwamisi. The forum sought to gather community views on the ongoing conflict between KWS and local residents living along the reserve.
Speaking with a unified voice, Mutha residents declared they would not vacate what they described as their ancestral land under any circumstances. They rejected any plans for eviction and called on KWS to strictly operate within its legally gazetted 1,133 square kilometers, while respecting the community’s 700 square kilometers they claim as ancestral territory.
The residents further demanded recognition of their land rights, protection from displacement, and assurance of dignity in any decisions affecting their livelihoods.
Kitui South Member of Parliament, Rachael Kaki, who attended the meeting, backed the community’s position. She condemned reported cases of forced evictions and pledged to push for justice for affected families while defending the land rights of Mutha residents.
The engagement marks a significant step in efforts to address tensions between conservation authorities and local communities, with leaders emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that safeguards both wildlife and human livelihoods.
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