Graduation Ceremony Marks Successful Completion of Land Acquisition & Resettlement Planning Training Course

Nairobi, 4th October 2024 – The Environment Institute of Kenya (EIK) organized an in-person graduation event for individuals who have finished the three-week Land Acquisition & Resettlement Planning Training Course. The virtual course took place from September 9th to September 27th, with attendees joining daily sessions from 4 pm to 6 pm (EAT) every Monday to Friday.

The training concentrated on important elements of resettlement planning and implementation, equipping participants to manage difficult tasks in land acquisition and resettlement initiatives. The course included discussions on topics like planning for moving, laws and regulations for Resettlement Action Plans (RAP), determining compensation amounts, and handling stakeholder feedback and complaints. Participants delved into specific topics like Gender in RAP and the Human Rights-based Approach to Resettlement, among others.

During the speech, EIK Chairman, Mr. Alex Mugambi, pointed out the important role of resettlement professionals in sustainable development, stating that graduates are prepared to carry out fair and equitable resettlement practices that put the livelihoods and rights of affected communities first. He stated that this course is a first step in developing fairer resettlement strategies that acknowledge the human consequences of development projects.

The graduates reached a major achievement as they prepare to use their expertise in addressing gaps in policy implementation, stakeholder engagement, and conflict resolution in resettlement projects in Kenya and other areas.

Certificates were presented to graduates for completing the course, signaling their ability to support sustainable development and land management.

The Environment Institute of Kenya is still developing expertise in environmental management with focused training programs like this one, promoting professional development and improving the governance of environmental and land use projects as a whole.