State House Comptroller Katoo ole Metito has revealed that large portions of land belonging to State Houses and State Lodges across Kenya have been grabbed, stalling renovation projects and raising security concerns.
Nairobi, Kenya – State House Comptroller Katoo ole Metito has sounded the alarm over widespread land grabbing targeting State Houses and State Lodges across the country, warning that the encroachment has stalled renovation projects and poses serious security risks.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Metito revealed that hundreds of acres of land belonging to these national properties have fallen into the hands of grabbers. He noted that while 100 acres in Kakamega have recently been recovered, the next focus will be on Nakuru and Kisumu, where encroachment is most severe.
“Almost all these State Lodges and State Houses… their land was really encroached, so it is a process. We are trying one by one. Even the Eldoret one we did, we had to repossess it from the club,” Metito told MPs.
Security Concerns
Members of Parliament expressed grave concern over the construction of multi-storey buildings adjacent to State Houses and Lodges, warning that such developments compromise national security. The committee specifically highlighted Nakuru and Kisumu, where disputes over land ownership have intensified.
Gabriel Tongoyo, Chairman of the Committee, pointed out that in Kisumu, part of the State Lodge land is allegedly occupied by the county government, with one house reportedly taken over by a nominated MCA. MPs directed that construction of a multi-storey building next to Nakuru State House be halted immediately.
Budget Scrutiny
The revelations come amid scrutiny of State House’s budget request. Metito defended the institution’s demand for KSh20 billion in the upcoming financial year, of which only KSh11 billion was allocated. He explained that national holiday celebrations outside Nairobi are costly, averaging KSh123 million per function, with at least 4,500 guests in attendance.
“On average, we spend KSh123 million per function, and the minimum number of guests is 4,500. So when you talk of costs of tents, food, you know…,” Metito said.
Ongoing Projects
Despite the challenges, Metito confirmed that 13 renovation and development projects are currently being implemented across State Houses and Lodges. He emphasized that repossession of grabbed land remains a priority to ensure the safety and functionality of these national properties.
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