[Source: Business Daily, by Tom Matoke]
Construction of a Sh1.3 billion solar power project at the Nandi-Kisumu border hangs in the balance following a protracted dispute over land belonging to a Moi-era Cabinet minister.
In the latest feud, squatters on Wednesday invaded the land owned by former Agriculture minister Odongo Omamo, and forcibly evicted surveyors who were erecting beacons.
The against over 3,000 squatters are demanding 2,000 acres out of the 5,000-acre parcel, arguing that Dr Omamo irregularly acquired the land belonging to the Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) in Tindiret sub-county.
An international investor has leased the land to host the 40-megawatt (MW) solar power plant, a step-up sub-station and a 1.8 kilometre transmission line of 132KV connecting to Lessos-Kisumu hills power main line.
Local leaders led by Nandi County executive in charge of youth and sports Elly Kurgat said the squatters want the construction of the solar project suspended to allow for more consultations between the county government and the solar company.
Speaking on behalf of the squatters, Mr Kiptui Chepkwony yesterday insisted that construction for the solar project should be suspended.
However, Nandi County Lands Chief Officer Dr Solomon Mangira stated that the land is a private property and the invasion by the squatters amounted to a criminal offence.
[Full article: Business Daily, by Tom Matoke]
