Mpeketoni wind power project faced with compensation row

A compensation row has emerged between farmers at the proposed 90 MW wind power project in Mpeketoni where farmers and area leaders are opposing the move to award Ken Wind Holdings a 3,200 acre farm.

The residents are saying that they would only support the project if a proper compensation and resettlement plan is provided for the 259 families living in the area.

Speaking in Bahari Ward at the proposed site in Lamu West Constituency, Lamu West Member of Parliament Julius Ndegwa said the government must come up with a proper compensation plan for squatters who will pave way for the construction of the Sh21 billion wind power project.

The MP said it was important that locals are given the first priority without forceful eviction from the proposed site.

Mr Ndegwa faulted National Lands Commission Chairman Mohammed Swazuri for instructing area county commissioner to stop politicians from conducting meetings at the site, saying the statement was reckless and adding that it is their constitutional right to hold meetings and discuss issues affecting their people.

Ndegwa, who is also a member in the Lands Parliamentary Committee, called on Swazuri to stop issuing threats and apologise to the residents.

The National Lands Commission had earlier issued a 14-day notice to allow interested parties to raise their objection to the project.