The County Government of Isiolo is set to validate the Oldonyiro Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan (2024–2034), marking a major step toward structured land management and sustainable growth in the region.
Deputy Governor James Lowasa said the plan aims to promote orderly development, enhance security and foster coexistence between humans and wildlife.
“This administration remains committed to effective land planning, which aligns with Governor Abdi Guyo’s manifesto. Land planning is an essential process for any developing area,” he said during a review meeting.
The plan, developed collaboratively with the Food and Agriculture Organisation, the State Department of Lands, the Wyss Academy for Nature, Save the Elephants and the Grevy’s Zebra Trust, seeks to provide a long-term framework for sustainable land use in Oldonyiro over the next decade.
Lowasa noted that human-wildlife conflict remains a persistent source of insecurity in Isiolo and the plan will help mitigate tensions by introducing clear land use zones and improved spatial management.
“Our governor’s manifesto focuses on improving security in the county and we will work with the county assembly to fast-track implementation of the plan,” he said.
CEC for Lands and Physical Planning, Hussein Jirmo, called for stronger collaboration between the executive and the assembly to ensure adequate budgetary support.
He said the plan will balance urban expansion, agricultural productivity and environmental conservation to spur long-term sustainability in Oldonyiro.
“Land tenure is a key economic driver for our people,” Jirmo said.
“Proper planning will improve access, reduce disputes, and ensure the community benefits equitably from land-based development.”
He added that the previous lack of access roads had left many parcels isolated and vulnerable during emergencies such as fires.
Ngaremara MCA Peter Losu underscored the importance of planning before land adjudication or allocation, warning that failure to do so could endanger key public utilities such as roads and schools.
“Proper planning must come first to secure development space for future generations,” he said.
Benard Opaa, deputy director of Natural Resources and Environment at the National Land Commission, said spatial planning remains the foundation of sustainable development.
“Isiolo is rich in wildlife and minerals. Proper planning promotes order, reduces conflict and provides the security investors need,” he said.
The validation of the Oldonyiro Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan is expected to pave the way for more coordinated land use across the county, signalling a shift toward structured, inclusive and sustainable growth.
