Land Disputes and the Consequences on Social Economic Activities of Households in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

Purpose: This study investigates the consequences of these land disputes on households’ social economic activities in Tharaka-Nithi County. Methodology: The study used descriptive research design targeting 1,598 disputed land claims in Chiakaraga ward, Tharaka Constituency in Tharaka-Nithi County which is greatly affected by many unresolved land disputes. A sample size of 94 households was picked using systematic random sampling, structured questionnaires and interview schedule administered to the focus group to collect primary data. Three purposively selected focus groups discussion from the village elders, household heads and non-governmental organizations (NGO) were organized in three different areas of the ward with ten participants each. Indeed, additional ten key informants from land officers, judiciary, interior coordination officer, elders and land tribunal members were purposively selected for interview. Quantitative data were summarized into frequency distribution tables, bar graphs and pie charts. Data from focus group discussion and interview schedule were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Anova and linear regression were conducted and determined the relationship between land disputes on household income of displaced households. Findings: The study found that landowners cultivate the disputed land in order to get food and generate income for their livelihood. The generated income was used to fund the filing of court cases in a bid to resolve land disputes. The study found that land disputes displace landowners, lower farm production and earnings. They also affected settlements of landowners since they feared displacement and demolition of their homesteads affecting their livelihood. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Findings from this study are helpful to stakeholders in land sector and policy makers in the county and national government in making decisions that will minimize causes of land disputes and quick resolution when they occur to spur social economic development