Details of Land Acquisition Law Allowing Government to Take Private Land

The Kenyan government has the power to acquire private land for public projects under Article 40 of the Constitution. For instance, the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Malaba will require the acquisition of privately owned land. Owners are entitled to prompt compensation at market rates for the land and improvements, but movable property is generally not compensated. Landowners can challenge acquisitions or compensation in court.