Land and Urban Development

The situation is especially dire in urban areas, where land scarcity places the urban poor under constant threat of eviction. In fact, Haki Yetu’s own story is rooted in this struggle. The organization emerged from efforts to resist forced evictions in the Bangladesh informal settlement in Mombasa. What began as a community-driven initiative by the Church has evolved into a 15-year journey of legal advocacy, with formal planning of the settlement now underway — a significant milestone in securing land rights for its residents.
Haki Yetu’s approach to land and urban development combines grassroots mobilization, community empowerment, and legal support. We build the capacity of local lobby groups to advocate for land rights, engage in policy dialogue, and mediate land disputes. Our work also includes active engagement with national and county governments to influence land policies and ensure equitable implementation of programs such as the Affordable Housing Programme.

Our advocacy has reached national platforms, including the Senate, where we have pushed for justice for communities displaced or negatively impacted by housing and infrastructure initiatives. Where necessary, we turn to the judiciary — and have secured landmark victories for communities in Owino Uhuru, Kibarani, Vikobani, Miritini, and Dzitengezere, who now hold legal rights to their land.

In recognition of the intersection between land, environment, and livelihoods, Haki Yetu has integrated environmental conservation, climate change adaptation, and blue economy elements into this program. These efforts aim to promote sustainable urban development and protect the rights and resilience of the most vulnerable.