KISII, Kenya Feb 15 – The Environment and Land Court has resolved a longstanding boundary dispute involving Keroka town, ruling that the larger portion of the town falls within Nyamira County’s jurisdiction.
This decision comes after years of contention between Kisii and Nyamira counties over the territorial boundaries of Keroka town, dating back to 2015.
The dispute centered around the Kisii-Keroka-Sotik main Highway, which had historically served as the boundary line, effectively dividing the town in half between the two counties.
The resolution of the dispute was initiated by a petition filed in the lands court by Rigoma Ward MCA Nyambega Gisesa in April last year.
The petitioner sought clarification on the boundary and accountability from the National Lands Commission (NLC) and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for their failure to demarcate the boundary accurately.
In delivering the judgment at the Nyamira Law Courts, Justice Mugo Kamau emphasized the need for clarity and adherence to demarcated boundaries.
He cited reports from a multi-agency team, including surveyors, IEBC representatives, and the NLC, which identified boundary beacons and established the true boundaries between the two counties.
According to the reports, the boundary of Nyamira County extends from Masaba North Sub-county Hospital, passing through Gucha Maternity Hospital and extending towards Gusii Farmers Union, before intersecting with the Kisii-Keroka-Sotik Highway at Bw’Ondabu area.
Justice Kamau’s ruling affirms these demarcated boundaries as the official guide for both counties in matters of revenue collection and administrative jurisdiction over Keroka town.
He urged county officials to abide by the new demarcations and implement a cooperative revenue collection plan based on the delineated boundaries.
Furthermore, Justice Kamau called upon the governors of both counties to work together in delivering essential services to the community, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation in fostering development and harmony.
The court’s decision marks a significant milestone in resolving the longstanding dispute and provides a clear framework for governance and administration in the region.
