It’s a moment of relief and celebration for members of Siana Group Ranch after the court dismissed a six-year-old case that had barred them from developing their land adjacent to the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
The Environment and Lands Court (ELC) Judge, Justice Charles Mbogo, ruled in favor of the ranch members, allowing them to receive title deeds for the 161,000-hectare parcel of land. The group ranch chairman, Kilesi Ole Sayianton, hailed the ruling as a long-overdue victory for the community.
The legal battle began in 2019 when Siana Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Moses Ole Sikona challenged the subdivision of plots in the marketplace, arguing that the allocation process was flawed.
He petitioned the court to suspend the issuance of title deeds until the matter was resolved.
However, the court dismissed the case, ruling that it lacked merit, as the group ranch had already ceased to exist as a legal entity by the time the petition was filed.
The issuance of title deeds had already taken place, rendering the case moot.
Expressing his joy, Ole Sayianton welcomed both local and international investors to explore opportunities in the area, which is rich in wildlife and tourism potential.
“For six years, some of our title deeds were held in court, preventing us from developing our land. Today, we celebrate this ruling, which finally gives us what is rightfully ours,” he said.
He urged members to maintain peace and unity to attract more tourists and investors to the region.
The ranch’s advocate, Martin Ole Kamwaro, termed the judgment a major win for the people, who had endured years of uncertainty.
“At the time of filing the case, the Siana Group Ranch had already been dissolved, and title deeds had been issued. This was a key reason why the court dismissed the petition,” Kamwaro explained.
He reassured the community that all public utility land had been appropriately allocated and remained intact.
Ole Sururu, a board member of the Siana Group Ranch, echoed the sentiment, calling the ruling a significant milestone that would allow members to engage in meaningful economic activities on their land.
“We thank the courts for upholding justice and listening to the voices of the people. After six long years, we celebrate a well-deserved victory today,” he said.
