Blow to Malindi residents as NLC disputes airport land compensation

The National Lands Commission (NLC) has revoked an evaluation done by the Kenya Airport Authority (KAA) to compensate 130 families occupying land earmarked for the first phase of the Malindi Airport expansion.

NLC Chairman, Dr Muhammad Swazuri, says the valuation done in 2012 by KAA at Kwa Chocha South area was illegal and is not recognized by the commission which is the only body mandated to carry out such valuations.

The National Government released 300 million shillings to compensate 130 families, which will be displaced in the 25 hectares meant for phase one of Malindi airport.

It is projected that the entire expansion programme for the Malindi airport will cost 5.6 billion shillings.

Dr Swazuri spoke during a meeting with residents of Kwa Chocha South in Malindi Town to end the anxiety on when the process of compensation would be complete.

The NLC chairman said the delays in compensating the residents of Kwa Chocha South was caused by lack of funds, which were now available.