Hosted in partnership with the Institute for Law and Environmental Governance (ILEG) and the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB).
Overview
The fifth Extractives Sector Forum (ESF) that took place on March 16, 2017 discussed the complex issue of land access and acquisition for extractive sector projects. The goal of the discussions was to establish how to balance different interests at stake in extractives related projects. Indeed, the concept of land proved to be one that needs deeper interrogation and discussion among industry, stakeholders and the two levels of government in Kenya – national and county – including the relevant administrative bodies, in particular the National Land Commission (NLC). The question of land use and development drew much interest and led to a call by participants for a national land use policy that would set a broader framework in Kenya beyond the existing land laws to clearly guide the process of use, management and development of land resources optimally and in a way that avoids or minimizes conflict. For more information on the discussions and outcome of the event please read the event report. The report is in no way exhaustive of the issues involving land acquisition and access but highlights the challenge of addressing the question and the need to further interrogate the issues. A detailed report outlines the outcome of the forum.