ISK Speaks Out on Riparian Demolitions, Calls for Clear Law and Fair Compensation

By Faith Wanza

Eric Nyadimo (member of institutions of surveyors Kenya)

The Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) has broken its silence on the ongoing riparian reserve demolitions, backing environmental protection efforts while warning that confusion in law and policy is putting property rights at risk.

In a press statement released in Nairobi, ISK said it supports government initiatives aimed at restoring rivers, protecting ecosystems, and reducing flooding. However, the body raised concerns over how riparian reserves are being defined, measured, and enforced across the country.

The statement comes amid recent remarks by Johnson Sakaja on demolishing structures built on what authorities term riparian land.

Confusion in Law and Boundaries

ISK highlighted major inconsistencies in how riparian reserves are identified. According to the surveyors, there is no uniform standard—some use the riverbank, others the high-water mark, while others rely on contour lines or even the centreline of rivers.

This lack of clarity has led to disputes, with developers and homeowners often unaware they are encroaching on protected zones.

They also pointed out that multiple laws and agencies govern riparian land, creating overlap and conflict in enforcement. The result? Uncoordinated decisions and rising tension between authorities and landowners.

Riparian Land Is Not Always Public Land

One key takeaway from ISK’s statement is that riparian reserves are not automatically public land.

They argue that the Constitution of Kenya 2010 does not support forceful land acquisition without due process. In fact, riparian zones can exist within private land, with restrictions mainly applying to how the land is used—not ownership itself.

ISK insists that any actions affecting landowners must align with Article 40, which protects property rights.

Flooding Linked to Poor Planning

The surveyors didn’t hold back on what’s making flooding worse lately. They blamed:

Clearing of vegetation along riverbanks

Ignoring zoning and planning regulations

Poor drainage systems in developments

Sudden release of water from private dams

Basically, it’s not just about riparian encroachment—urban planning itself is catching strays.

Call for Policy and Compensation

ISK is now pushing for a clear national policy to guide how riparian reserves are measured, managed, and protected.

They also raised the issue of fairness, especially for people who legally acquired land under previous regulations. If demolitions must happen, ISK says compensation should be considered.

The Bottom Line

ISK isn’t against protecting rivers they’re saying do it right. Clear rules, proper surveys, and respect for property rights. Otherwise, it’s chaos dressed as enforcement.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

UDA ISSUES CERTIFICATES TO BY-ELECTION CANDIDATES

Image
 By faith wanza • The party secretary general hassan omar said that the election was fair •The party is the first one in kenya to conduct nominations using technology Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday during the ceremony, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar underscored the credibility of the process, noting that the party had not received any formal complaints. “So far, we have not received any complaints with regard to this election. That means the exercise that you did was beyond reproach,” he said.
Read more

Joho Forms Technical Team to Resolve Tata Chemicals Magadi Standoff

Image
 By Faith Wanza mueni  Photo:Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho has announced the formation of a high-level technical committee tasked with resolving the compliance disputes that led to the suspension of operations at Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited. In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Joho said the decision followed what he described as a productive meeting at his office with executives of the soda ash producer, during which both sides discussed the compliance concerns the Ministry had raised. The Cabinet Secretary said the engagement was aimed at charting a clear path toward resolving the standoff in a structured and timely manner. He noted that the meeting had produced an agreement to set up a joint technical team to examine the outstanding issues in detail. "To facilitate a comprehensive and timely resolution of the outstanding matters, we...
Read more

🥊 Majembe Clinches Victory in Explosive “Vurugu Fight Night”

Image
By Faith wanza             Wanza8155@gmail.com Right majembe left mbavu the destroyer during the vurugu fight on april 4 at kasarani indoor arena It was chaos, energy, and pure adrenaline as Majembe emerged victorious in the highly anticipated Vurugu Fight Night, knocking out his opponent Mbavu Destroyer in a bout that has already set social media on fire. The event, which drew massive crowds and online attention, lived up to its name “Vurugu”  delivering a night full of intensity, drama, and raw street style boxing entertainment. 🔥 The Fight From the opening bell, both fighters came in aggressive, but Majembe quickly took control, showcasing power, confidence, and calculated strikes. Mbavu Destroyer tried to hold his ground, but the pressure proved too much. The fight reached its peak when Majembe landed a decisive blow, sending Mbavu crashing down and forcing a stoppage that sealed the win. 🎤 Crowd and Atmosphere Fans erupted in cheers as the ...
Read more