Property owners in Kiambu County have received relief after the county government announced a reduction in land rates alongside a temporary waiver on penalties and interest for outstanding payments.
In the latest directive, the county has lowered land rates from 0.25 per cent to 0.15 per cent, a move aimed at easing the financial burden on landowners and encouraging compliance with payment obligations.
At the same time, the county has introduced a 100 per cent waiver on all accrued penalties and interest on unpaid land rates. The waiver will run until May 31, 2026, giving property owners a limited window to clear their arrears without incurring additional charges.
County officials say the initiative is designed to boost revenue collection while offering residents a fair opportunity to regularise their land records. Many property owners have accumulated significant penalties over time, making it difficult to settle their dues.
“This is an opportunity for landowners to clear their outstanding balances without the extra burden of penalties and interest,” the county noted in its communication.
The reduction in land rates is also expected to make it easier for more residents to remain compliant going forward, particularly in the current economic climate where many households are facing financial pressure.
Officials have urged property owners to take advantage of the waiver period, warning that penalties and interest will resume once the deadline lapses.
Land rates form a key source of revenue for county governments, funding essential services such as infrastructure development, waste management, and public amenities. By encouraging compliance, the county hopes to strengthen its revenue base while maintaining service delivery.
Residents in Kikuyu Municipality and across Kiambu have welcomed the move, describing it as timely and necessary. Some property owners say the waiver provides much-needed relief, especially for those who had fallen behind due to accumulated penalties.
However, the county has emphasized that the waiver is time-bound and will not be extended beyond the stated deadline, urging landowners to act promptly.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by the county government to streamline revenue collection systems while making it more convenient and affordable for residents to meet their obligations.
Property owners are now being encouraged to clear their outstanding land rates early and secure their property records ahead of the May 31 deadline.
