Real Estate Stakeholders Urge Government to Expedite Digitization Amid Title Deed Theft Concerns

Real estate stakeholders have called on the Kenyan government to accelerate the digitization of services within the Ministry of Lands following the theft of title deed papers from government press offices. The incident has raised alarms over potential fraudulent activities that could harm investors.

Chrispus Wachira, Managing Director of Almond Estate, expressed deep concern over the theft, stressing that the security of critical documents like title deeds is vital for the real estate sector. “It is a huge concern if a security document such as a title deed paper is stolen from a government office.

Land is an emotive issue in Kenya, and such documents must be well-guarded,” Wachira said during a house reveal and title issuance event at Almond Kiserian Homes in Ngong, Kajiado County.

Wachira also highlighted the broader impact of political instability on the economy, particularly in light of the ongoing efforts to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. He warned that such distractions could undermine investor confidence. “This impeachment motion is disruptive to our economy and could lead investors to flee to more politically stable countries,” Wachira added, urging leaders to focus on delivering on their promises to the public.

Investor Dr. Nelius Saroni echoed these concerns, calling for a thorough investigation into the stolen title deed papers to prevent potential misuse by fraudsters. She stressed the need for urgent reforms to safeguard Kenya’s real estate sector.

The theft of the title deed papers comes at a time when the Ministry of Lands is already under pressure to enhance efficiency through digitization. Stakeholders believe that accelerating this process will ensure better security and transparency, protecting both businesses and investors.