A heated dispute has erupted between Kiambu County and Tatu City, raising concerns about the future of thousands of jobs and significant investments in the area. The conflict centers around Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s request for 54 acres of land from Tatu City’s 5,000-acre development. This land is intended for public use, including a governor’s residence—a demand that Tatu City strongly opposes, calling it extortion.
Governor Wamatangi’s administration argues that allocating 54 acres for public amenities like a hospital, community center, and stadium is necessary under the Physical and Land Use Planning Act of 2019 and related regulations.
However, the disagreement escalates over the proposed governor’s residence. Tatu City argues that this request goes beyond legal requirements for public land use. Legal advice supports this, stating that any land acquisition by the County Government must follow due process or be purchased at market value.
Preston Mendenhall, COO of Rendeavour, Tatu City’s parent company, accuses Governor Wamatangi of delaying approval of Tatu City’s new Master Plan for over 18 months due to these demands. Mendenhall estimates that this delay has cost Kenya upwards of KSh 16 billion (US$125 million) in potential investments and 4,500 jobs.
The standoff goes beyond financial losses. Tatu City, supported by investors from New Zealand, the UK, the US, and Norway, is seen as a key economic driver with the potential to create significant job opportunities in the region. The ongoing conflict jeopardizes these prospects, leaving local communities uncertain about future job creation and economic growth.
As negotiations continue, stakeholders are urging both parties to find a quick and fair resolution. The outcome will not only affect the immediate development of Tatu City but also influence future investment climates in Kenya. Stay tuned as developments unfold, shaping the economic landscape and livelihoods in Kiambu County.
photo source: Google
By: Montel Kamau
Serrari Financial Analyst
15th July, 2024
Article and News Disclaimer
The information provided on www.serrarigroup.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information up to date and accurate, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
www.serrarigroup.com is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information on the website is provided on an "as-is" basis, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness, or of the results obtained from the use of this information, and without warranty of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of performance, merchantability, and fitness for a particular purpose.
In no event will www.serrarigroup.com be liable to you or anyone else for any decision made or action taken in reliance on the information provided on the website or for any consequential, special, or similar damages, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
The articles, news, and information presented on www.serrarigroup.com reflect the opinions of the respective authors and contributors and do not necessarily represent the views of the website or its management. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the individual authors and do not represent the website's views or opinions as a whole.
The content on www.serrarigroup.com may include links to external websites, which are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. We have no control over the nature, content, and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorsement of the views expressed within them.
Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, www.serrarigroup.com takes no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control.
Please note that laws, regulations, and information can change rapidly, and we advise you to conduct further research and seek professional advice when necessary.
By using www.serrarigroup.com, you agree to this disclaimer and its terms. If you do not agree with this disclaimer, please do not use the website.
www.serrarigroup.com, reserves the right to update, modify, or remove any part of this disclaimer without prior notice. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer periodically for changes.
Serrari Group 2023
