By Yoga David.
The county government of Kisumu is advancing the use of technology to improve land governance, climate resilience, and sustainable development, following a high-level meeting held with the European Union mission in Kenya and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) delegation.
Deputy Governor Dr. Matthew Owili hosted the delegation led by Mr. Charles Kagure, EU Program Manager for the Digital Land Governance Programme (DLGP) and Agriculture.
Dr. Owili, while welcoming the team, outlined the strides the county has made under the programme. These include the establishment of the Geographical Information System (GIS) laboratory, the country’s efforts in disaster risk management, the development of the county spatial plan, and the county GIS policy.
He talked of the county’s ambition to continue strengthening and partnering with the EU and FAO to build a robust, inclusive, and citizen-driven land governance system.
“We look forward to deepening this partnership to ensure an effective, inclusive, and efficient land governance system that serves everyone,” he said.
Mr. Kagure praised Kisumu for its leadership in digital transformation, inclusivity in land governance, and its commitment to using technology to empower communities.
“We’re pleased to note that Kisumu is playing a leadership role in the integration of digital mapping in agriculture and land use planning,” he said.
He added, “The fact that the county has embraced data-driven systems demonstrates a vision and commitment to modernization.”
He also noted that Kisumu’s progress provides a model for other counties and reiterated the EU’s support for further collaboration.
During the meeting, a presentation on the county’s progress under DLGP was delivered by Andrew Kombewa, the county local person for DLGP, alongside Seth Obiero, the county head of GIS.
They highlighted major achievements, including the establishment of a modern GIS laboratory, successful land clinic sessions across sub-counties, digitization of land and physical planning records, and the ongoing preparation of the County Spatial Plan and GIS Policy.
They noted the county has made strides in mapping public land inventory and engaging stakeholders in spatial planning discussions.
The presenters also pointed out challenges they have faced, such as co-financing constraints and delays in time and administrative processes. These issues, they noted, if dealt with, will improve coordination, long-term planning, and resource alignment.
The FAO delegation was represented by Kisumu Cluster Lead, David Makongo, Program Assistant, John Ogolla, and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Team Lead, Tito Arunga.
Also present were CECMs Dr. Gregory Ganda (Health), Judith Oluoch (Water & Environment), Salmon Orimba (Public Service & Administration), Farida Salim (Tourism & Trade), Beatrice Odongo (Sports & Culture), John Awiti (Education), Chief of Staff Aloice Ager, John Oywa Chief Officer, Public Service & Administration, Charles Omollo Deputy City Manager,Kisumu and other officials from the county and the EU/FAO delegation.