This archive report was first published on 6 May 2021.
Located on the border of Kenya and Tanzania, Lake Challa has deep cultural and religious significance for the local community. According to tradition, any interference with the lake can lead to serious curse inflictions.
However, an unidentified private developer has now laid claim to over 1,000 acres of land adjacent to the lake, sparking fears among residents that their sacred shrine may be in danger.
The land in question is part of the Challa Conservation Area, which was set aside for the public in 2013 to allow easy access to the scenic lake. The community had donated the land for conservation activities, but it appears that the developer's intentions may be far from altruistic.
Beacons have been erected by the investor, which locals see as a move to block their access to the lake from the Kenyan side. Julius Meshuri, chair of the Challa Beach Management Unit, has called on the developer to leave the land alone.
County officials have vowed to fight any attempts to privatize the land, but it is suspected that the developer may have had backing from influential figures in the past, including former governor John Mruttu, an ally of William Ruto.
Mruttu has also been linked to a ranch in the county, and it is feared that the individuals behind the land grab may be well-connected and have deep pockets.
Governor Granton Samboja is now fighting back against the developer's plans, and the Taveta Council of Elders has held meetings to discuss the matter, with many residents vowing not to allow the shrine to fall into private hands.
