Members of the Siaya Kadenge Seje Yimbo (SIKASEYI) community gathered outside the Siaya Lands office to protest the lack of progress on a community land inventory for Yala Swamp.

They said they have submitted seven formal letters to Governor James Orengo’s office without receiving any response, prompting them to consider legal recourse.

SIKASEYI chairman Benard Ogeya Mgele read the petition, emphasizing that the delay hampers farmers’ ability to obtain legal recognition, protection and registration of their community land.

The petition requests a written explanation from the governor on the status of the inventory, the reasons for the delay, and a time‑bound plan for preparing and submitting the documentation.

It also warns that if a satisfactory response is not received within 14 days of receipt, the community will pursue administrative, constitutional and judicial remedies.

During the protest, County Executive Committee Member for Lands Neto Adhola showed a letter from the county attorney dated 15 October 2026, outlining steps for inventory preparation, which temporarily eased tensions.

Both parties subsequently agreed to hold a public meeting within two weeks, involving relevant departments and stakeholders, to seek a lasting resolution to the dispute.