The construction of the long-awaited Nithi River Bridge in Tharaka Nithi County has moved a step closer after the Ministry of Lands officially launched the land acquisition and compensation process for residents whose properties will be affected by the project.
The exercise marks a key milestone in the implementation of the bridge, which is expected to improve transport, enhance road safety and stimulate economic growth in the region.
The launch brought together national and county government officials, local administrators and residents as the government began implementing the project aimed at eliminating one of the country’s most dangerous road black spots.
Addressing residents and families expected to be affected by the project, Ministry of Lands Compensation Supervisor John Nyamweya said the government had published a gazette notice identifying the parcels of land earmarked for acquisition.
Nyamweya encouraged all individuals affected by the project to present themselves for verification and identification, which will take place over the next two weeks.
He said the ministry would continue sensitising residents on the land acquisition process to ensure all affected persons receive compensation.
“Valuers and surveyors have compiled an inventory of all damages for those who allowed early entry into their land,” Nyamweya said.
“It is important to allow early entry because the contractor is already on the ground and wants to begin work.”
Tharaka Nithi County Commissioner David Gitonga appealed to residents to support the government’s efforts to facilitate the construction of the Nithi River Bridge.
He said some of the affected households had not finalised succession and land ownership processes, a situation that could slow down the compensation exercise.
“We have agreed with the relevant agencies that we shall work together to help families acquire ownership documents through the proper legal procedures so that they can receive their compensation,” he said.
Residents welcomed the launch of the compensation exercise and expressed optimism that the bridge would finally eliminate the deadly accidents that have claimed lives at the notorious black spot. They urged the government to fast-track the process so that affected families can relocate and construction can begin without further delay.
With the compensation process now underway, attention now shifts to the start of construction on a project expected to ease transport challenges, strengthen regional connectivity and spur economic growth across Tharaka Nithi County.
— By Regan Oluoch
Email your news TIPS to Editor@nairobilawmonthly.com, and to advertise with us, call +254715061658 anytime of the day
