A group of activists in Mombasa is calling on private investors occupying Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) land with expired leases to vacate immediately to allow for the expansion of the Meter Gauge Railway (MGR).
Speaking during a media briefing in Mombasa, the activists, led by Evans Momanyi, accused influential businessmen of occupying public land for decades, blocking crucial development initiatives.
“If you walk along Ganjoni, you will see many parcels of land originally belonging to the Kenya Railways Corporation that are now under private control. These are public lands that have been held by individuals for 40 to 50 years. Now that the leases have expired, the land should revert to the government for development projects that will benefit the public,” said Momanyi.
Michael Nato, another activist, echoed the call and urged authorities to take decisive action against those who have encroached on public property.
“There are three types of land: community land, public land, and private land. Railway land is public land, and it should serve the public interest, not personal gain,” said Nato. “Just because your father was once a powerful figure in government doesn’t mean you have the right to take everything.”
The group emphasized that protecting public land is a collective responsibility and expressed support for KRC’s ongoing development plans.
“We see KRC’s plans as community-focused, and we should back them. Through these investments, our youth will have job opportunities,” said Juma Athman.
The activists also called on the government to extend the MGR line to the Likoni Ferry area in a bid to ease urban congestion and spur economic activity.
“Extending the MGR to the ferry will not only open up business opportunities in Mombasa but also benefit residents of Kwale,” added Momanyi.