Wajir pushes for training, alternative justice approach to resolve land disputes

A member of the Wajir Land Tribunal takes an oath of office after completing a three-day training on land dispute resolution mechanisms. [Mohamed Saman, Standard]

In a renewed effort towards resolving land disputes and fostering community harmony, Wajior County has embarked on a plan to train members of the Land Tribunal Committee on dispute resolution mechanisms.

The training the county said is part of its broader effort to introduce and implement more effective and culturally sensitive dispute resolution mechanisms across the county.

Through its department of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development in partnership with UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) the three-day training focused on equipping the participants with knowledge and skills in the Alternative Justice System (AJS), Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms and the traditional 'Maslah' system.

These three methods are designed to offer more accessible, efficient, and culturally aligned pathways for resolving land-related conflicts. The 'Maslah' system, deeply rooted in the community's traditions, emphasizes mediation and reconciliation.

Abdullahi Issack, the Chief Officer for Lands, highlighted the importance of the training in addressing the persistent land disputes that have plagued Wajir County.

"The introduction of AJS, ADR, and the 'Maslah' system will provide our communities with more practical and harmonious solutions to land conflicts, reducing the need for lengthy and costly legal battles," said Issack.

In a significant ceremony marking the culmination of the training, the newly trained members of the tribunal were formally sworn in on Friday.

The initiative represents a collaborative effort to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region, aligning with the county’s broader goals of community integration and effective governance.

The county said with these enhanced dispute resolution tools at its disposal, it is now better equipped to address the complex and often contentious land issues facing the community, paving the way for a more harmonious and prosperous future for all its residents.

The training also aims at incorporating the three methods in dispute resolution to enhance community cohesion and integration within the county.