Hara residents protest alleged land grabbing

Residents of Hara hold placards during the demonstrations./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Residents of Hara in Ijara Constituency, Garissa County, have protested over alleged land grabbing.

Speaking to the press in Hara, locals expressed their collective rejection of the proposed land acquisition, stating that the land in question is ancestral and belongs to the community.

In a statement read by community elder Adan Abdi, they said the decision reflects the unified voice of the people, as clearly demonstrated during a recent public rally held in Hara Location.

He noted that locals unanimously and firmly opposed the acquisition process.

“Our concerns are grounded in the lack of adequate consultation, transparency, and mutual agreement regarding this matter. The land in question holds significant cultural, economic, and social value to our community, and any decision affecting it must fully respect our rights, heritage, and livelihoods,” he said.

Community members called on stakeholders to immediately halt any ongoing or planned acquisition activities and instead engage in meaningful and inclusive dialogue with the Ali Matan community.

They also urged all parties to respect the will and rights of the community, as expressed during the Hara rally.

“We remain open to constructive discussions that prioritize fairness, respect, and the long-term well-being of our people,” he added.

The developer is reportedly in talks with some local leaders and key community members regarding the acquisition of land, which is said will be used for an irrigation scheme.

The community stated that the area in question serves as grazing land and warned that losing it would severely limit space for livestock.

They called on local leaders to reject any attempts to acquire the land.