Migori County, Kenya – The National Land Commission (NLC) has formally launched the process of compensating residents whose land is required for the construction of the new Muhuru Pier on Lake Victoria.

Land Acquisition and Compensation

In a gazette notice dated 26 August, the NLC listed 26 parcels of land in the Kadem/Muhuru Bay area, covering 6.8 hectares, that will be acquired for the project. The commission has instructed affected landowners to lodge compensation claims at the Migori County Lands Office. Required documents include:

• A written claim

• National ID

• KRA PIN

• Proof of land ownership

• Bank account details

The NLC emphasized that the process is in line with Part VIII of the Land Act, ensuring lawful and transparent acquisition on behalf of the Migori County government.

Strategic Importance of Muhuru Pier

The pier, launched by President William Ruto in May, is designed to expand trade, boost transport, and strengthen the fishing economy on Lake Victoria. A pier provides docking space for boats and landing areas for fishers, and once completed, the Muhuru Pier is expected to integrate Migori County more effectively into regional markets.

Wider Infrastructure Push

This announcement follows an earlier August notice for land acquisition in Kiambu County, where 0.217 hectares were earmarked for the Ndekere–Kwa Macharia–Cuniniki Road project. Both initiatives highlight the government’s broader push to accelerate county-level infrastructure.

Local Perspectives

Community leaders argue that timely compensation is essential to avoid disputes and allow construction to proceed without delay. Residents in Muhuru Bay anticipate that the pier will generate new jobs in fishing, transport, and related businesses, positioning the area as an emerging hub for commerce along Lake Victoria.