In recent years, the conversation around land use and urban design has shifted. It’s no longer just about growth or aesthetics — it’s about survival. Communities across Kenya, from sprawling suburbs like Ruai to flood-prone areas like Budalangi, are feeling the pressure of a changing climate. Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, and extreme weather events…

Land is the foundation upon which societies build their homes, infrastructure, economies, and ecosystems. In Kenya—a country undergoing rapid urbanization, population growth, and environmental change—effective land use planning is critical for sustainable development. This blog explores the Kenyan legal and policy frameworks, institutional arrangements, challenges and opportunities, and emerging trends shaping how land is…

Have you ever come across a large planning document for your town and wondered, “What does this even mean?” That document was likely a Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan (LPLUDP)—a blueprint that guides how your neighborhood, town, or region will grow and develop. Understanding how to read an LPLUDP empowers you as…

Land is a deeply emotive and vital resource in Kenya. It is tied not only to economic development and livelihood but also to identity, heritage, and social status. For individuals and investors alike, understanding the legal systems that govern land ownership is crucial. Kenya operates primarily under two key land tenure systems: freehold and…

In an era marked by rapid development, population growth, and climate change, the need for sustainability in planning and policymaking has never been more critical. Kenya, like many countries globally, faces the complex challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental protection. One powerful tool to aid in this balancing act is Strategic Environmental Assessment…

Urban planning might sound like a technical profession reserved for engineers and architects, but the truth is—it affects all of us. Whether you’re navigating traffic in Nairobi, buying land in Kisumu, or attending a community baraza in Machakos, urban planning plays a silent yet powerful role in shaping your daily life. This guide breaks…

If you’ve ever heard the term “EIA” thrown around in development meetings or government notices and wondered what it actually means—you’re not alone. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are a critical yet often misunderstood tool in ensuring that developments don’t come at the cost of the environment or public health. In Kenya, EIAs are required…

Public spaces are the unsung heroes of our cities and towns. They may look simple—a park, a sidewalk, or even a public library—but the role they play in shaping healthy, vibrant, and safe communities is immense. Whether it’s offering a place for children to play, a space for elders to rest, or a venue…

Have you ever noticed how cities and towns seem to follow a certain structure? Residential homes are often grouped together, businesses are found in specific areas, and large factories are located far from neighborhoods. This structure is not by accident — it’s the result of zoning. Whether you live in Nairobi, Kisumu, or a…