Landowners in Gatundu, Kiambu County, who surrendered their plots for the construction of Mama Ngina University three years ago, are still waiting for compensation totaling Sh 2.2 billion.
Speaking to journalists at Mutomo shopping center, the property owners urged the government to expedite the payments. Out of 195 landowners, only 9 opposed the land acquisition.
The residents received awards from the National Land Commission in 2021 and have been awaiting the cumulative payout for the 40 acres they ceded before the university’s expansion begins.
Led by John Njuguna, the landowners criticized the few villagers opposing the expansion, calling them enemies of development. They highlighted the university’s expansion as a significant opportunity for socio-economic growth in the area.
Locals noted that land values in the village have doubled and believe that the planned expansion will bring even greater economic benefits.
Njuguna, known as ‘Long John,’ called on President William Ruto to intervene and ensure the required compensation is provided to alleviate the anxiety of the affected members.
Established in 2019 on a 10.3-acre plot, the university plans to expand, requiring an additional 40 acres from the surrounding area, impacting at least 195 households. Supporters of the expansion are set to receive at least Sh 10 million each for a quarter-acre plot.
The National Land Commission, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Education, issued a Special Gazette Notice to acquire the land parcels, but the notice was later declared null and void by the land tribunal.
Mama Ngina University, a constituent college of Kenyatta University, is located about 100 meters off Kenyatta Road in Mutomo village, approximately 14.5 km from Thika Road.
