Rights groups are sounding the alarm over alleged illegal land acquisition by gold mining companies in Western Kenya, specifically in Kakamega, Vihiga, and Siaya counties. They are calling for a halt to mining activities until a resolution is found.

• Residents report land taken without due process, with allegations of forged land documents and altered title deeds, leading to protests.
• Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi, a civil society group, accuses mining companies of failing to obtain free, prior, and informed consent from affected communities, citing areas like Ramula, Mwibona, and Ikolomani.
• The situation has led to violence, with two deaths reported during protests in Gem–Ramula, Siaya County, following police intervention.

A coalition of civil society groups is demanding an immediate cessation of all gold and mining activities in western Kenya.

• The groups cite widespread environmental degradation and alleged human rights abuses as the primary reasons for their call.
• Key organizations involved in the directive include the EAC Research and Educational Centre and the Center for Environmental Action, among others.
• The appeal targets the actions of numerous mining entities, both local and international, operating in the region, urging a halt until proper regulations are enforced.

Activists are calling for a halt to mining activities in Western Kenya, citing widespread concerns about the impact of these operations.

• Environmental degradation and potential displacement of communities are key concerns.
• The appeal is being championed by various activist groups operating in the region.
• The activists urge for an immediate suspension pending thorough environmental impact assessments.

The Uasin Gishu County government has announced a significant relief measure for property owners, offering a 100% waiver on penalties and interest accrued on outstanding land rates.

• A 100% waiver on all outstanding interest and penalties on land rates.
• Property owners must clear the principal land rates by April 30 to qualify.
• The initiative was announced by Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim.
• This waiver aims to ease financial burdens and facilitate easier access to other county services like Single Business Permits.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has initiated a public consultation period for its Draft Reparations Guidelines 2026, seeking input to enhance justice and compensation for victims of human rights violations.

• The consultation is part of broader reforms aimed at ensuring victims receive accessible, effective, and timely reparations.
• Key organizations involved are the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and the High Court.
• Submissions can be made via email to reparations@knchr.org, post, or in person at KNCHR offices, with a standard template provided to guide feedback.