The Changing Dynamics of Agricultural Land Use in Kenya: Legal responses to address the threat of food insecurity from land fragmentation

Abstract

Land fragmentation is a critical issue in Kenya, posing a major threat to food security in the country. This study investigates the impact of land fragmentation on food security, with a focus on changes in agricultural land use. Using a mixed-methods approach that uses qualitative and quantitative data from desktop research, the findings reveal that land fragmentation leads to a rapid decline in arable land without the corresponding technologies to improve productivity. Cultural practices, shifting agricultural habits, and changing demographics drive land fragmentation, resulting in reduced agricultural productivity, limited credit access, and higher transaction costs, all of which adversely affect food security in Kenya. The study also emphasizes the significance of land tenure security, particularly for smallholder farmers who own fragmented land. Insecure land tenure hinders investment, credit access, and long-term agricultural planning. The paper concludes by recommending policy interventions such as land consolidation programs, leasing and collective farming, as well as property tax to address the issue of land fragmentation and enhance food security.