Former Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Aisha Jumwa, is currently facing a legal battle over a Sh250 million house she purchased last year. The dispute involves Bejav Furniture Limited, which has taken the matter to court, seeking to compel Jumwa to pay an outstanding Sh60 million, part of the agreed purchase price.
Bejav Furniture initially pursued a bankruptcy declaration against Jumwa but the case was referred to mediation. The saga began when Jumwa, who was sworn in as Cabinet Secretary on October 27, 2022, approached Roselyn Wambui in February 2023 to buy her property, initially valued at Sh250 million. After negotiations, the price was reduced to Sh215 million.
Wambui claims she instructed her lawyer, Kinyanjui Kirimi & Company Advocates, to prepare the sale agreement, which was sent to Jumwa’s legal representatives at Mohamoud, Gitau & Jillo LLP Advocates on February 25, 2023. Jumwa’s legal team acknowledged the agreement but informed Wambui that the purchase would be financed through a loan.
It later emerged that Jumwa could only secure Sh145 million in financing from Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB). Consequently, Jumwa’s lawyer suggested an addendum to the agreement to account for the Sh70 million balance, which was not covered by the loan.
According to Wambui, there were specific decorations and furnishings in the house that she was supposed to remove, as stated in the addendum. Jumwa agreed to pay the remaining Sh60 million over 12 months, a term that was included in the initial draft agreement.
Wambui claims she transferred ownership of the house to Jumwa, who then used it as collateral for the KCB loan. However, after receiving the Sh10 million down payment, Wambui says she received no further payments from Jumwa. Despite repeated demands for the outstanding balance, Wambui alleges that Jumwa has ignored her requests, leading to a breach of contract.
Wambui’s lawyers initiated a debt recovery case, which included an attempt to have Jumwa declared bankrupt. However, this case is currently pending mediation or settlement, with Wambui expressing frustration at the lack of progress.
Wambui is now seeking a court order compelling Jumwa to pay the outstanding amount plus 18.5 percent interest until it is fully settled. In response, Jumwa has filed an objection, arguing that the court lacks jurisdiction over the case. Her lawyers, led by Prof. Tom Ojienda, assert that the original agreement between the parties stipulated that any disputes would be resolved through arbitration, not litigation.
Jumwa is also requesting that the court dismiss the case and order Wambui to cover the legal costs.
The Kenyan construction industry is entering a new era with the launch of the National Building Code 2024. Developers or construction industry practitioner have just one year to align their projects with these new regulations, which are set to revolutionize the way buildings are designed, constructed, and maintained in Kenya.
Since 1968, Kenya has relied on outdated building codes that have struggled to keep pace with modern construction demands. The use of substandard materials, poor workmanship, and the flouting of zoning rules have contributed to the alarming number of building collapses and other construction-related incidents. The Building Code 2024 marks a significant departure from these old practices, offering a comprehensive framework that incorporates current technological advancements and sustainability principles.
The new code introduces several groundbreaking provisions that aim to modernize the construction industry in Kenya.
Piping Networks for LPG Gas: The new regulations require the integration of piping networks for the supply of LPG gas in new buildings. This is a crucial safety measure designed to reduce the risks associated with improper gas installations.
Fiber Connectivity: Recognizing the importance of digital infrastructure, the code mandates the inclusion of fiber optic networks in new constructions. This provision is essential for ensuring that buildings are equipped to meet the demands of Kenya’s rapidly digitizing economy.
Sustainable Green Building Materials: The use of environmentally friendly and sustainable building materials is now a requirement. This shift not only promotes the conservation of resources but also aligns with global trends in eco-friendly construction practices.
The National Building Code 2024 also signifies Kenya’s move away from colonial influences in its construction regulations. The new code sets local standards that are tailored to the country’s unique needs and challenges. This change is expected to bring about orderly and coordinated development across the nation, ensuring that new constructions are safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.
One of the major benefits of the new code is the emphasis on professional maintenance of building stock. Regular maintenance is critical to ensuring the longevity and safety of structures, and the new regulations make this a priority.
Moreover, the code addresses the need for digital connectivity, a crucial aspect that was absent in the 1968 regulations. In today’s digital age, having reliable data and communication networks is vital for both residential and commercial buildings. The inclusion of fiber connectivity provisions ensures that new buildings are equipped with the necessary infrastructure to support these needs.
The affordable housing program, a flagship initiative of the Kenyan government, is being positioned as the ideal platform to showcase the impact of the Building Code 2024. By implementing the new regulations in these projects, the government hopes to set a standard for future developments. Once complete, these buildings will demonstrate how the new code can lead to safer, more sustainable, and digitally connected housing options for Kenyans.
The repeal of the previous Physical Planning Act is another critical step in the implementation of the Building Code 2024. This move is expected to harmonize regulations between county and national governments, ensuring a consistent and nationwide approach to construction practices. The introduction of mobile units to test the quality of construction on-site further underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing the new regulations.
The National Building Code 2024 is a bold step forward for Kenya’s construction industry. It not only addresses the shortcomings of the outdated 1968 code but also positions Kenya at the forefront of modern, sustainable building practices. As a developer or industry practitioner, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with these new regulations and ensure that your projects comply within the stipulated one-year timeframe.
Losing a title deed can be an overwhelming experience, but it’s important to remember that all is not lost. Whether due to theft, misplacement, or unforeseen circumstances, a missing title deed can be replaced through a clear and structured legal process in Kenya. Instead of panicking, you can take the necessary steps to recover this crucial document, ensuring your property rights remain intact. This guide will walk you through the process, providing peace of mind and practical solutions for getting a new title deed in hand.
Why Should You Replace a Lost Title Deed?
A title deed is one of the few legal documents that prove land ownership. Without it, you could find yourself in a difficult situation. While there’s no specific timeframe for reporting the loss in Kenya, it’s wise to act quickly. Immediate action can prevent potential fraud or unauthorized transactions involving your property. As soon as you realize your title deed is missing, you should begin the replacement process.
The first thing you should do when you lose any formal document is to report it to the nearest police station. This creates an official record, which could be crucial if any issues arise regarding your property. You’ll need to provide the police with the deed number or a photocopy, along with your original ID or passport. The police will then issue an abstract, which is necessary for the following steps. Before moving on to the next step, a search will be conducted to confirm your ownership of the lost or damaged deed.
Swear an Affidavit
Kenyan law requires that you and any other involved parties swear an affidavit explaining how the title deed was lost or misplaced. This legal document will support your application for a replacement deed.
Apply for a New Title Deed
You or your representative must then submit an application for a new title deed. The following documents are required:
The police abstract you obtained.
Certified copies of your ID or passport.
Certified copies of the certificate of incorporation (if the property is owned by a company).
Certified passport-sized photos.
An official search report from the Lands Registry.
You will also need to pay the required application fee at this stage.
The Lands Registrar will publish a gazette notice in at least one widely circulated national newspaper, announcing the intention to replace the lost title deed. This notice allows anyone with objections 60 days to come forward.
Provisional Certificate
If no objections are raised during the 60-day period, the Registrar will issue a provisional certificate. This serves as a temporary title deed while you wait for the permanent one to be prepared.
Tips for a Smooth Replacement Process
Start Early
Don’t wait until you desperately need the title deed to begin the replacement process. Start as soon as you realize it’s missing.
Seek Professional Help
Consider hiring a registered advocate to guide you through the process. Legal professionals can help minimize errors and expedite the process.
Keep Records
Maintain detailed records of all communications with the Lands Registry and other relevant parties. Regularly follow up on the status of your application.
Secure Storage
Going forward, be more careful with essential documents. Many banks offer safekeeping services for a small annual fee—consider using them to store your title deed securely.
Estimated Costs
Replacing a title deed can cost between KES 10,000 and 20,000, depending on various factors. Below is a breakdown of approximate costs:
Affidavit and police abstract: KES 3,000
Gazette notice: KES 3,400
Advertisement in the dailies: KES 2,000
Application for a new title deed: KES 3,000
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth process with minimal delays in replacing your lost title deed.
Home Africa, a real estate firm grappling with substantial debt, has entered administration following prolonged financial challenges. According to a gazette notice dated July 23, 2024, the company’s directors have been stripped of their rights to manage or transact with the company’s assets.
Messrs Kamal Anantroy Bhatt and Dhir Kamal Bhatt of Anant Bhatt LLP have been appointed as Joint Administrators, effective May 13, 2025. This move is in line with Section 563(2)(b) of the Insolvency Act, 2015 of Kenya.
Previously, Home Africa had sought to address its financial woes through various measures, including establishing a committee for debt restructuring, business continuity, and organizational restructuring. The company attempted to mitigate its financial difficulties by selling off assets such as housing units and land. Despite these efforts, the firm still struggled to manage an outstanding Sh79 million loan from I&M Bank.
The company’s directors had planned to sell housing units from the Mitini Scapes Development in Kiambu and Lake View Heights in Kisumu as part of their debt restructuring strategy. However, with the new administration in place, those with claims against the company are now advised to submit their claims to the administrators for review. The appointment of the administrators means that the directors no longer have authority over the company’s assets or management.
In 2016, Home Africa announced a strategic shift from focusing solely on real estate development to incorporating property management and real estate agency services into its business model.
Nairobi’s suburbs are experiencing a notable drop in rental prices, as well as house sale prices, according to a recent report by HassConsult released on Tuesday, July 30. Upper Hill and Muthaiga have been identified as the most affected areas, with tough economic conditions cited as the primary cause for this negative trend.
For the second quarter of 2024, Nairobi’s suburbs and satellite towns recorded only a marginal increase of 0.01% in rent prices, reflecting a shrinking demand for rental properties in suburb areas. In contrast, satellite towns showed stronger performance, with an average rent price increase of 2.1%, compared to a 0.9% decrease in the suburbs.
“This rise in satellite towns can be attributed to accelerated urbanisation, which has bolstered demand and driven up asking prices,” the report noted.
HassConsult attributed the declining rent rates in suburban areas to the growing cost of credit. Property owners are increasingly cautious about raising rents in an effort to retain tenants, as higher taxes and inflation continue to squeeze disposable incomes.
Upper Hill has seen the steepest decline in rental growth, with apartment rental prices dropping by 4.3% over the last quarter. Muthaiga, on the other hand, recorded the lowest annual rental price increase, with a 4.3% decline over the past year.
The downturn in Upper Hill extends beyond rental prices, as house sale prices in the area also saw a significant drop. Apartments in Upper Hill registered a 3.9% decrease in sale prices over the last quarter and an 8.3% decline annually.
Sakina Hassanali, Head of Development, Consulting, and Research at HassConsult, explained that while higher mortgage interest rates don’t significantly impact overall property price movements due to low mortgage participation in Kenya, they do reduce market liquidity, leading to a dampening of demand.
Imagine a landlord using a strange trick to make sure tenants pay their rent arrears. It sounds unusual, but for one tenant, this became a real problem. Here’s what happened: the landlord locked the tenant’s door with a padlock, but not in the usual way. The lock was just hanging there, so the door didn’t close properly and stayed open. This left the tenant’s home exposed and vulnerable.
The tenant had already paid a deposit, which she usually meant to cover damages or unpaid rent. “Even though the deposit was paid, the landlord continued to lock the door in this odd manner”. This not only made it difficult for the tenant to secure their home but also led to frustration and confusion about what to do next.
Using such an unusual method raises questions about what is fair and legal. Landlords have the right to deal with unpaid rent, but they must do so in a way that follows the law and respects tenants’ rights.
It’s important for both tenants and landlords to follow the right steps when dealing with rent.
As a tenant, to avoid problems with your landlord, it’s important to pay your rent on time. Keeping up with payments helps prevent conflicts and avoids stress. If you’re late with payments, your landlord might take unusual steps to get the rent. Always keep records of your rent payments, including receipts, so you can prove you’ve paid if issues come up. If you’re having trouble paying, let your landlord know as soon as possible. They might be willing to work out a payment plan to help you manage.
Landlords should stick to legal methods when dealing with unpaid rent. This usually means giving the right notice and following specific rules. Landlords must also treat tenants fairly and respectfully. Using unusual methods to get rent can be seen as harassment and may be against the law. It’s better to handle rent problems through official channels and keep communication professional. This approach helps keep things fair and ensures that actions are legal.
A Kenyan man has caused quite a stir online after sharing some extreme advice on how to deal with landlords who refuse to return rental deposits. His tips, posted on Facebook, have led to a heated discussion, with many people questioning whether his suggestions go too far.
The Facebook user, named Fred Braddock, shared some radical ideas on how to get back at landlords who won’t return deposits. Instead of just accepting the loss, Fred encouraged tenants to take drastic actions to damage the property.
He suggested things like using a knife to remove tiles and flooding the house with water, pouring cement into the toilet to block the plumbing, breaking electrical sockets and bulb holders, spray-painting the landlord’s name on the walls, and finally, breaking the padlock at the meter box.
Fred’s advice quickly went viral, with many Kenyans shocked by how extreme his suggestions were. Some thought his ideas were too harsh, while others even added their own.
Kellen W Nyaga commented, “Doing all this, you must be wicked, idle, poor, and full of bitterness.”
Nells J Reagans had a different idea, suggesting, “Print posters with his numbers and put them on bridges with KeNHA markings. They will fight your battles.”
However, not everyone agreed with these tactics. Mercy Ronoh said, “My conscience can’t allow me,” and Joy Njuguna Joyce added, “This is tiring and dumb. Why not pay rent and sit on the deposit by force?”
Fred’s post highlights the frustration many tenants feel when landlords refuse to return deposits. In another incident, a Twitter user shared how she dealt with a similar situation by pouring cooking oil down the sink to block it, sparking more debate.
While Fred’s extreme suggestions may be tempting for some, they bring up important questions about fairness and legality. The conversation shows that there’s a need for better rules and clearer processes for handling rental deposits in Kenya. In the end, peaceful solutions benefit both landlords and tenants.
As the online debate continues, it’s clear that the relationship between landlords and tenants in Kenya needs better communication, understanding, and fairness.
Legally evicting a tenant in Kenya requires following specific steps outlined in the law to ensure the process is fair and just. The landlord must first issue a written notice to the tenant, typically giving them 30 to 90 days to vacate the property. This notice must clearly state the reasons for eviction, such as non-payment of rent, breach of lease terms, or the landlord’s intention to use the property for personal use.
If the tenant refuses to leave after the notice period, the landlord cannot forcibly remove them. Instead, the landlord must file an eviction suit in a Rent Tribunal or a court of law. The tribunal or court will review the case and, if the landlord’s reasons are valid, issue an eviction order.
The government decided to withdraw the controversial Land Laws (Amendment) Bill 2023, fearing it would trigger public anger if it appeared to be amending the Constitution covertly. At the time of withdrawal, the Bill, which proposed an annual levy on freehold land and sought to reduce the National Land Commission’s (NLC) powers by transferring key functions to the Lands Cabinet Secretary, was under review by the House’s Lands Committee.
The Bill, sponsored by Leader of Majority Kimani Ichung’wah, aimed to amend six Land Acts: the Registration of Documents Act, Land Control Act, Land Registration Act, Land Act, Community Land Act, and the Sectional Properties Act. As the Kikuyu Member of Parliament and by virtue of his position, Ichung’wah signs all government Bills introduced in the National Assembly.
On June 13, aware of the opposition and public disapproval the Bill had generated, Ichung’wah formally informed House Speaker Moses Wetang’ula of the government’s intention to withdraw the Bill. “Having consulted with the relevant stakeholders, this is now to confirm that the majority party has withdrawn the Bill,” Ichung’wah wrote to the Speaker. He requested that the House Business Committee, chaired by the Speaker, be notified of the withdrawal and that “no further consideration of the Bill should be undertaken.”
The NLC, a constitutional commission responsible for spearheading land reforms in the country, stood to lose significant functions. The Bill sought to transfer the NLC’s responsibilities for land valuation and compulsory acquisition on behalf of national and county governments to the Lands Cabinet Secretary. It also proposed removing the NLC’s mandate to inspect land, conduct investigations, pay compensation to affected landowners, and participate in land lease renewals, transferring these duties to the Lands CS.
Public outrage was particularly intense over the proposal to introduce rates on freehold land, which would effectively turn landowners into lessees of the government, risking loss of their land if they failed to pay the rates. Most ancestral land in Kenya is freehold, owned without any government-imposed fees.
The proposed new clause 54A of the Bill stated, “The owner of any freehold land situated within the boundaries of any urban area or city shall pay an annual land levy equivalent to land rent charged on a comparable leasehold land or property of the same zone.” It included a provision that freehold land used for agriculture might be exempt from the annual levy.
This proposal was contrary to the Supreme Court Advisory opinion of 2014, which confirmed that the Land Act’s provisions were consistent with the Constitution regarding the NLC’s mandate to protect public interests. NLC Chief Executive Officer Kabale Tache opposed the imposition of an annual levy on freehold land, calling it to double taxation, and stated that freehold interests are superior, with no landlord to whom rent could be owed.
The Bill also proposed creating a Land Compensation Inquiry Committee to take over the NLC’s role in determining compensation for compulsory land acquisition and sought to amend the NLC Act to remove time limits for reviewing grants and dispositions of public land, allowing historical land injustice claims to be heard beyond 2026.
Upon withdrawing the Bill, Ichung’wah noted the various constitutional and legal issues it raised and mentioned the need for these issues to be resolved before further consideration. He informed the Lands Committee not to prioritize the Bill’s consideration to allow for consultations with the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning and the NLC.
The formal withdrawal of a Bill is usually followed by a communication from the Speaker, but there is no record of such communication from Speaker Wetang’ula.
Let’s make your real estate journey smooth. Search for trusted real estate agents in your area on our website and get matched with a local expert who can guide you every step of the way.
Unlock the potential of your property. List your home for sale on Property254 and connect with motivated buyers looking for their dream home in Kenya.
Sell fast our properties fast. Property254 connects you with serious buyers. List your property for sale on our user-friendly website today.
Contact Us
Ready to achieve your real estate goals? Our team of experts can help you sell your property quickly and for the best price. Contact Property254 today for a free consultation.
Thinking of selling? Let’s chat! Our experienced agents have a proven track record of success
Don’t go it alone. Selling a property can be complex. Contact Property254 today and let our team guide you through the process every step of the way.
Finding the right agent is crucial. Connect with a local real estate expert who knows your town’s market inside and out. Contact Property254 today and get matched with the perfect agent for your needs.
Ready to streamline your real estate journey? Let us connect you with a top-performing real estate agent in your area. Contact Property254 and get the local expertise you deserve.
Don’t waste time searching. Contact Property254 today and let us connect you with a qualified real estate agent in your town. Get started on your real estate goals now.
For a free buyer’s consultation with a local agent, contact Property254 today! We’ll connect you with the right expert to help you find your dream home.
Need expert guidance in the Kenyan real estate market? Contact Property254 today. Our team of advisors is here to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions.
Not sure if buying or selling is right for you? Contact Property254 and get personalized advice from our experts. We’ll help you navigate your options and make the best decision for your needs.
Explore your property options with confidence. Visit our website for valuable resources and then contact Property254 to get personalized advice from our real estate experts.
Have a question about buying, selling, or investing in Kenyan real estate? Don’t hesitate to contact Property254! Our team of experts is here to help.
Webnars
Unlock the secrets of the Kenyan real estate market. join our upcoming webinar and gain valuable insights from industry experts.
Empower yourself with knowledge! Join our free webinar and learn the latest trends, buying strategies, and insider tips to navigate the Kenyan real estate market with confidence.
Limited spots available! Don’t miss out on our exclusive webinar. Click here to register now!
Take control of your real estate future. Join our upcoming webinar today. Click here to reserve your spot.
Free event notifications! Click the here and tell us your interests to receive personalized alerts about upcoming Property254 real estate events relevant to your needs.
Email Subscription
Navigating the Kenyan real estate market is easier with Property254 as your guide. Don’t miss out on expert insights and exclusive opportunities. Subscribe to our newsletter now and let’s unlock the door to your future together.
Hit that subscribe button to join the Property254 community and unlock exclusive real estate content.
Stay ahead of the curve! subscribe to our training notifications and get the latest updates on upcoming Property254 workshops and seminars.
Invest in your real estate knowledge! join our training notification list and gain access to valuable educational resources to help you achieve your real estate goals.
Don’t miss out on valuable learning opportunities! Click here to be notified of our upcoming Property254 trainings and level up your real estate expertise.
Free training alerts! subscribe and get notified directly about upcoming Property254 training sessions relevant to your interests.
Don’t miss out on exciting opportunities! From open houses to networking events, click the here to be notified of upcoming Property254 real estate events and connect with key players in the Kenyan market.
Mark your calendars. Click the link to be notified of our upcoming real estate events and stay informed about the latest happenings in the Kenyan property scene.
Videography and Photography Services
Enhance your listings with professional videography and photography services from Property254. Stand out in the market and attract serious buyers. Contact us today to book your session.
Showcase Your Property with Stunning Visuals. Let Property254 help you highlight the unique features of your property with high-quality photos and videos. Transform your listings and draw in more potential buyers. Schedule your shoot now!
Elevate your real estate marketing with Property254’s expert videography and photography services. Create a lasting impression and sell faster. Get in touch with us to get started!
Website Development
Do you have a website?
Trees are more important today than ever before. More than 10,000 products are reportedly made from trees. Through chemistry, the humble woodpile is yielding chemicals, plastics and fabrics that were beyond comprehension when an axe first felled a Texas tree.
Boost your real estate business with a custom website from Property254. Our expert developers will craft a site that showcases your listings and services beautifully. Contact us today to discuss your project!
Get a High-Performing Real Estate Website! Property254 offers tailored website development to meet the unique needs of real estate professionals. Improve your online visibility and attract more clients. Start your web project with us now!
Transform Your Real Estate Business Online! From sleek designs to seamless functionality, Property254 builds websites that drive results. Enhance your brand and grow your business with our expert web development services. Reach out to us today!
Let Property254 handle your social media, so you can focus on closing deals. We create engaging content that drives traffic and generates leads. Contact us to elevate your social media game!
Maximize Your Reach on social media. Property254 offers comprehensive social media management to help you connect with your audience and grow your real estate business. Get started with us today and watch your engagement soar.
Engage and Grow Your Audience with Property254. Our social media management services are designed to increase your visibility and attract more clients. Let Property254 manage your social media presence and drive your business forward. Get in touch now!
Simple Plan
Enrich our growing community.
General admission and member discounts for one adult
Residents of Nairobi County who have purchased or rented apartments from developers will soon have to pay sectional rates in addition to value capture.
Charles Kerich, a member of the County Executive Committee (CECM), disclosed this in an interview with Spice FM on Monday, May 23.
Developers have been paying the same prices for apartments as for undeveloped land, which is why Kerich believes value capture is crucial.
According to the CECM, value capture would guarantee equitable land charges and broaden the county’s revenue source.
He clarified the unfairness of the current land charges by saying, “Let us take, for example, that you have one acre in Upper Hill; on that one acre stands a tower with 50 stories paying the same as that one-acre next door that has nothing.”
Kerich said that because they were using water and sewage services in addition to a road network, everyone in that building had to pay rates based on the floor they occupied.
“Even though you won’t divide this one acre, you can capture the value of each floor so that each owner pays rates in addition to their share,” he clarified.
Speaking of sectional property, Kerich disclosed that the county was now working to completely implement the Sectional Property Act in order to prevent a small number of people from bearing the entire cost of land rates on subdivided properties.
He clarified the currently being phased out approach by saying, “What happens is that if you are on one acre and you have 60 apartments, the rates charged on that land are undeveloped site value, meaning you are charged as if there is nothing on that property.”
“Let’s say you have 60 apartments and you need to pay Ksh60,000. You can allocate and say everyone pays Ksh1,000, but a lot of people will end up footing the bill for the people who don’t want to pay.”
In order to prevent the developer from receiving payment in one single sum, the Act will now grant each apartment owner complete ownership of their unit.
The CECM clarified that everyone would have their own title and pay their own rates to sectional property, which would protect them from being impacted by the defaults of their neighbours.
He declared that the ability to take out loans against the property without having to deal with the developer was a win for Kenyans purchasing or renting apartments.
