Kenyan surveyors are urging the government to digitize all land records, ensuring transparency and efficiency. The Institute of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) insists that modern technology will eliminate duplicate title deeds and prevent fraudulent transactions.
Speaking at the Pre-Annual General Meeting (AGM) conference in Mombasa, ISK President Eric Nyadimo emphasized the need for accessible land data. He explained that manual records often create conflicts, leading to multiple surveys on the same property. “Every parcel should have only one title deed. Digitization will end fraud,” Nyadimo stated.
The Ministry of Lands has advanced digitization through the National Land Information Management System (NLIMS), Ardhisasa. The system operates in Nairobi, Murang’a, and Mombasa, promoting efficiency in land dealings. However, surveyors demand nationwide implementation to prevent fraud and simplify transactions.
Nyadimo praised the government for establishing the National Land Commission (NLC) and the Environment and Land Court, both strengthening land governance. He also highlighted alternative dispute resolution mechanisms designed to address land conflicts faster.
Digitization aligns with Kenya’s broader land reform agenda. The government has issued over two million title deeds and resettled more than 40,000 landless households. Yet, challenges persist, including reliance on manual processes, limited digital literacy, and funding constraints.
Surveyors advocate for geospatial technologies and land information systems, tools that improve land use planning and prevent fraud. They also support policies promoting green infrastructure and climate-resilient development to ensure sustainable land management.
Surveyors stress the urgency of modernizing records, protecting property rights, and boosting economic growth.
