National Land Commission Kicks off 4th Regional Research Conference on Land Reform

The 4th Regional Research Conference on Land Reform officially opened today with a strong call for action, reflection, and collaboration in Kenya’s land governance sector.

Speaking during the launch, Commissioner Esther Mathenge of the National Land Commission (NLC) emphasizing on the theme Taking Stock of the Land Reform Progress in Kenya,she reiterated that the NLC recognizes the critical role land reforms play in shaping the future of Kenya’s land governance.

She highlighted that the Commission’s strategic objectives are grounded in promoting sustainable development through evidence-based research and policy engagement on land and natural resource use. She cited Article 67(2)(d) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which mandates the NLC to conduct research on land and natural resources and advise relevant authorities.“Kenya has made significant strides in land reform,” she stated, “especially following the enactment of the National Land Policy and the 2010 Constitution, which introduced institutions like the NLC and the Environment and Land Court (ELC).”

However, she acknowledged that challenges persist, including cultural barriers, unsustainable land use, demographic pressures, climate change, and inadequate land information systems. While platforms like Ardhi Sasa are commendable, Mathenge noted the urgent need for their full national rollout to inform planning and decision-making.

Building on a legacy of dialogue and collaboration, Kabale Tache Arero, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Land Commission, acknowledge stakeholders and partners for their unwavering support. “It gives me great pleasure to see dedicated researchers, academia, civil societies, and land practitioners gathered to explore solutions and share experiences on land reforms,” she said, acknowledging the critical role of partners such as the Ministry of Lands, FAO, National Research Fund, University of Nairobi, and others.

CEO Arero outlined how previous regional conferences have shaped policy and practice. The inaugural conference in 2021 focused on land and food security, followed by the 2023 conference on climate change and land governance, and the 2024 edition spotlighting data, innovation, and technology in land management.

“These forums have been instrumental in enhancing the link between sustainable land governance, food security, and climate resilience,” she noted.

The CEO emphasized that the 2025 conference aims to take stock of NLC’s achievements, confront persistent and emerging challenges, and develop practical policy recommendations. With sessions organized around four key themes legal and institutional frameworks, dispute resolution mechanisms, governance and land administration, and natural resource management Arero called on stakeholders to actively participate and collaborate.

“Let us use this platform to foster partnerships and reaffirm our commitment to inclusive and just land governance,” she stated.

The three-day event, held at the Kenya School of Government, brings together a cross-section of stakeholders from government, academia, development partners, civil society, and the private sector. The conference is structured to encourage interdisciplinary discussions, knowledge exchange, and policy engagement to shape the next phase of Kenya’s land reform journey.

The Land Use Planning, Research and Counties Committee of the NLC reaffirmed their commitment to justice, equity, and sustainable development in the land sector. “While the road ahead remains complex, our collective resolve is strong. Regional collaboration and inclusive reforms will remain our guiding pillars,” they noted.

As the 4th Regional Research Conference unfolds, participants are expected to craft actionable recommendations, foster new partnerships, and develop practical solutions to accelerate land reform in Kenya. The National Land Commission affirmed that the insights from this forum will directly inform future strategies and reinforce Kenya’s commitment to equitable land governance.

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