Kaya elders oppose Governor Mung'aro's plan for Industrial Park in Kayafungo
Malindi District Cultural Association (MADCA) Secretary General Joseph Mwarandu. Photo/Mishi Gongo
Kaya elders in Kilifi County have opposed Governor Gideon Mung’aro’s proposal to establish an industrial park in Kayafungo Ward, located within Kaloleni sub-County.
The elders have threatened to take legal action against Governor Mung’aro and the Kilifi County Government if the proposal, which involves using part of the Kayafungo Forest, is not reversed.
Speaking to the press in Sabaki, Malindi sub-County, the elders emphasized that the land in question is culturally significant and should be preserved for traditional practices.
They made it clear they would fight to protect the area at all costs.
Mr Said Chitanda Matojo, a representative from Kaya Rabai, expressed the community’s concerns.
"We have information that there are plans to build an industrial park within the Kaya Forest in Kayafungo. Kayas are protected heritage sites, and we will not allow anyone to use them for any other purpose," Mr Chitanda said.
He urged the county government to find alternative sites for the industrial park, away from the Kaya forests.
“If people want to set up an industrial park, they should do so in designated areas, not on Kaya land. We, the Mijikenda elders, will not allow the kayas to be interfered with,” he added.
Joseph Karisa Mwarandu, the Secretary General of the Malindi District Cultural Association (MADCA), stated that the elders had already written to Governor Mung’aro, demanding that he halt the plan.
He also warned that they would take legal action if the governor failed to respond appropriately.
"The land belongs to the community, and the county government holds it in trust. We fear that investors might misuse ownership documents, as happened in Vipingo," he explained.
Mwarandu referred to the historical lease of land in Vipingo during colonial times, which, after the lease expired, was sold to investors.
"Our people are still suffering from the sale of land in Vipingo. Do they want to bring the same problem to Kayafungo? We will not allow this," he said.
Mr Stan Kiraga, who is the founding chairperson of MADCA, urged the governor to consult with the community before making any decisions about the land.
“Land is not a commodity to be sold. Any elected leader should consult with the people before making decisions. If a leader has been given authority, they must involve us in any major decision… not just make unilateral orders,” Mr Kiraga said.
Mr Nyanje Kazungu, a member of the Mijikenda community, also called on the governor to reconsider his decision.
“We need to think carefully and follow the principles of the Constitution, especially public participation under Article 10. Making decisions without consulting the people could lead to serious consequences for everyone,” Mr Kazungu warned.
The elders remain firm in their stance, emphasizing their commitment to protecting their cultural heritage and land.
