Diaspora Land Ownership – Understanding Title Deeds, Leases, and Land Tenure in Kenya
Know Your Rights. Protect Your Investment.
Real estate jargon can be confusing—especially when you’re abroad. At Gazebo Homes Ltd, we break it down for you.
Freehold vs Leasehold:
- Freehold: Full land ownership with no time limit (common in rural or peri-urban areas like Kisumu, Nanyuki, and Kitengela)
- Leasehold: You lease the land from the government or county for a period, usually 99 years (common in Nairobi, Mombasa, and government-owned plots)
Understanding Title Deeds:
- Always request a copy of the title deed
- Conduct a land search at the Ministry of Lands to check ownership, restrictions, and any encumbrances
- Confirm if land is part of a larger mother title, which may need subdivision before your title is issued
Legal Protections for Diaspora:
- The 2010 Constitution protects land rights for Kenyan citizens regardless of residency
- Diaspora can legally own land and property in their name or jointly with family
- Avoid verbal agreements—everything must be written and signed
